Alumni News

Join us on THURSDAY, APRIL 23 to Mix and Mingle with fellow alumni
at ROBERT'S WESTSIDE on Madison in Forest Park from 5:00 - 8:00 PM. 
FREE admission - CASH bar.  


The Alumni Association is hosting this fun social event and we'd love to see you there.  Over 21 only.
The Alumni Association will provide light food and appetizers, entertainment and a special appearance by members of the OPRFHS JAZZ BAND at 6:15 PM!    
SAVE THE DATE - and SHARE our Facebook EVENT:   facebook.com/events/1634866847534390

PLEASE REGISTER. To help us estimate how many to expect, please REGISTER.  There is no admission charge, but we'd like to know how many plan to attend.  Register HERE: https://link.dice.fm/qfb67243cc55   Or use the QR Code:

Robert's Westside is at 7321 Madision Street, Forest Park.
It is owned by 2004 grad Donnie Biggins.

On the evening of SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28,  alumni and current students will come together at the Madison Street Theatre in Oak Park for a very special event celebrating the legacy of DIANA IVAS, the beloved OPRF teacher and visionary who led the Orchesis Dance Program through the 1970s and 80s. This dynamic program will feature performances from current Orchesis dancers and alumni—some of whom are now professional artists. This event will serve as both a reunion and celebration, while raising awareness and support for the OPUS Scholarship Endowment, which provides need-based scholarships to graduating OPRFHS seniors pursuing careers in the performing arts. Use this link to PURCHASE TICKETS at this link: https://ci.ovationtix.com/36958/production/1260915...

2026 REUNIONS and Alumni Get-Togethers
Some 2026 CLASS REUNIONS are in the works. So far we've heard about reunions for  2016, 1976, a belated 1965 reunion and a 63 for '63 gathering for 1963.  Some ates and other details are currently tentative. Check our Facebook Reunions and Alumni Events group for news and updates. All posts to the group are public.  Please get in touch if you know of others to add to this list.
Additional reunion info is posted HERE:  https://tinyurl.com/OPRFReunions

THREE ALUMNI honored during PRESENTATION on Thursday, FEB 12

On February 12, 2026, Student Council hosted the annual Tradition of Excellence Awards.
Launched in 1982, the awards recognize alumni who have made outstanding contributions to society through their personal and professional pursuits.
Three alumni were honored:

  * STEPHANIE "SPARKLE" EDWARDS, Class of 1986 - R&B singer and advocate
  * DR. KATE MASUR, Class of 1989 - Professor, historian, and author 
  * JOURDAN HIGGS, Class of 2004 - Chef, restaurant owner, and TV personality

ABOUT THE HONOREES

Stephanie “Sparkle” Edwards, Class of 1986 - R&B singer and advocate

Platinum-selling R&B performer Stephanie “Sparkle” Edwards began singing at church as a young child. In 1998, her first album, “Sparkle,” debuted at number 3 on the Billboard 200. Sparkle has worked with a variety of well-known artists during her career, including Aaliyah, Mary J. Blige, Wyclef Jean, and Toni Braxton. She also has been an advocate for abused women and girls, and in 2024 received the inaugural Courage Fund Award from the Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice. The Courage Fund works to empower women and girls to speak out against violence, and is an initiative led by bestselling author Ta-Nehisi Coates, Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Salamishah Tillet, artist Scheherazade Tillet of A Long Walk Home, and activist Ted Bunch of A Call to Men.  

Dr. Kate Masur, Class of 1989 - Professor, historian, and author 

John D. MacArthur Professor and professor of history Kate Masur teaches at Northwestern University, specializing in the U.S. history of race, politics, and law. Her award-winning book Until Justice Be Done: America’s First Civil Rights Movement, from the Revolution to Reconstruction was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in History, a 2021 critic’s pick from the New York Times, and winner of multiple awards. Dr. Masur regularly collaborates with museums and other nonprofits, including the National Park Service, the National Constitution Center, the Newberry Library, and the Smithsonian Museum of African American History and Culture. 

Jourdan Higgs, Class of 2004 - Chef, restaurant owner, and TV personality

A rising star in the culinary world, Jourdan Higgs traces his passion for cooking to growing up in a family with a deep appreciation for southern food. He’s known for innovative techniques and bold flavors; much of what he learned was through experimentation in the family kitchen and, eventually, working with mentors that included Gordan Ramsey. In the midst of the pandemic, with zero restaurant industry experience, Higgs and a business partner launched the tiny West Town (Chicago) restaurant Provaré, focusing on what Higgs calls Creole-Italian fusion. The risk paid off: In 2022 Provaré won the Chicago Tribune Critics Choice Food Award for Best Cinderella story. 

Read more about the Tradition of Excellence and view more photos  on Facebook HERE.

Updated FEB 1, 2026 

SCHOOL TOURS - With the assistance of the Buildings & Grounds Dept., the Alumni Association sponsors tours of the high school for class reunion groups.  These are guided group tours that last about an  hour.   We request that reunion committees contact the Alumni Office to verify that they would like a tour for their group and submit this FORM.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Tours are offered BY REQUEST, usually on Saturday morning.  Tours BEGIN around 9:45 AM - No entry prior to 9:30 AM. These are GUIDED GROUP TOURS that last about an hour.  All are welcome! 

Individual tours are available on a limited basis by appointment only.  E-mail the Alumni Office at alumniassociation@oprfhs.org for information.

FOOTBALL TICKETS – HOME games are on Friday evenings with Varsity kick-off at 7:30 (approximately) Most games are preceded by the Sophomore game starting at 5:00.  Additional information and a link to purchase tickets will be posted when school resumes after summer break.

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards its Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica. 
We always enjoy hearing from the students at the RECEPTION we host for them and their families - this year on Monday, October 20.

 

Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students.
Please make a tax-deductible donation HERE

For the 2024-25 school year, we provided more than $63,000.00 in all.
In addition to the Student Enrichment Grants listed below, which are awarded on behalf of individual students who submit individual applications, we made TWO general Enrichment awards:
· $2000 to the MENA Club for 20 students to visit the Arab American National Museum in Dearborn, Michigan
· $9500 to support the CITE program, part of the Special Ed Department.

A total of $52,097.75 was awarded on behalf of individual students for the programs below, including several school-sponsored programs. View photos on Facebook and on Shutterfly.

OPRFHS programs – 18 students, TOTAL: $22,679.75

 

 AP ART to NYC (spring)                  CHOIR TRIP to NYC (spring)     

  Audrey C.                                           Hayley P.

  Sofia C.                                               Starr P.

  Clarabella C.                                      Tekla S.

  Genesis G. 

  Saadia G.                                       

  Eva K.        

  Aoife A.    

  Jaela M.    

  Martin S.

 ORCHESTRA trip to SPAIN (spring)          

  Simon B.

 FIELD SCIENCES to COSTA RICA (Summer) 

 Taylor F.

 Katherine H.

 Trinity R.

 Claudia S.

 Jenna W.

2025 REUNIONS and Alumni Get-Togethers

NOTE: The 2025 Reunion Season is winding down, with two events left to take place at the end of November
Check our Facebook Reunions and Alumni Events group for news and updates. All posts to the group are public.
Additional reunion info is posted HERE:  https://tinyurl.com/OPRFReunions

The 4th Annual All-class, All-alumni GET TOGETHER is planned for Friday, JUNE 27 at Mike's Place on Roosevelt Rd. & Ridgeland in Berwyn.  Here's the link for more details and to RESERVE your spot: Eventbrite2025
On Saturday, JUNE 28 there will be an All-Alumni picnic in Miller Meadow.

We know of four OPRFHS Class Reunions coming up in 2025, listed below:

• Class of 2015 Ten-year on FRIDAY, JUNE 13
• Class of 1995 Thirty-year on SATURDAY, October 11
• Class of 1985 Forty-year on SATURDAY, October 11
• Class of 1975 Fifty-year on SATURDAY, October 11
• MORE INFO about these reunions (and others) is posted HERE:  https://tinyurl.com/OPRFReunions

ALSO, the EMERSON 8th Grade Class of 1975 is planning a 50-year reunion for Saturday, OCTOBER 25. Those who went on to OPRFHS would be the OPRF Class of '79.  More information was posted on Facebook by Karen Considine in the Alumni Group, it is a public post: LINK

Some 2026 REUNIONS are in the early planning stages. So far we've heard about reunions for  2016, 1976 and a belated 1965 reunion.  Dates and other details are currently tentative.  Visit the OPRFReunions link for the most up-to-date information.

Updated SEPT 9, 2025 (originally published February 26, 2025)

SCHOOL TOURS - With the assistance of the Buildings & Grounds Dept., the Alumni Association sponsors tours of the high school for class reunion groups.  These are guided group tours that last about an  hour.   We request that reunion committees contact the Alumni Office to verify that they would like a tour for their group and submit this FORM.

IMPORTANT NOTE: On SATURDAY, OCTOBER 11 we plan to offer tours in the morning.  Tours BEGIN around 9:45 AM - No entry prior to 9:30 AM. These are GUIDED GROUP TOURS that begin around 9:45 a.m. and last about an hour. 

All are welcome! With three reunions are taking place ('75, '85 and '95) and to keep the groups manageable, we may offer several tours at staggered times. Class years may be combined in tour groups.  The FINAL tour will begin no later than 10:15 AM.
COFFEE and COOKIES will be served in the South Cafeteria.  Alumni merchandise will be available for purchase.

Individual tours are available on a limited basis by appointment only.  E-mail the Alumni Office at alumniassociation@oprfhs.org for information.

FOOTBALL TICKETS – HOME games are on Friday evenings with Varsity kick-off at 7:30 (approximately) Most games are preceded by the Sophomore game starting at 5:00. The 2025 Football Schedule includes HOMECOMING vs. Lyons Township on Friday, OCTOBER 10. 
Link for tickets: https://gofan.co/event/4390299?schoolId=IL15616 - tickets are VIRTUAL and must be purchased prior to entering the stadium.

Additional HOME games are 9/12- vs Glenbard West, 10/3- vs Downers Grove North and 10/17- vs Addison Trail. The Football season opened against Fenwick on September 6.  Use this LINK for ticket information.  All tickets cost $5.00 and include admission to both the Sophomore and Varsity games.

Join us on WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 17 to Mix and Mingle with fellow alumni at ROBERT'S WESTSIDE in Forest Park from 5:00 - 8:00 PM.  FREE admission - CASH bar.  Please REGISTER by Friday, SEPT 12 so we know how many to expect.
The Alumni Association is hosting this fun social event and we'd love to see you there.  Over 21 only.

The Alumni Association will provide light food/appetizers from Berwyn Chicken. Entertainment provided by DJ DUKE SUPREME, playing a wide variety of Oldies, Motown/Soul, 70s/Disco, Classic Ol' School Hip Hop, 80s/90s, Top 40 and more.  And we're thrilled to showcase an appearance by members of the OPRFHS JAZZ BAND at 6:00 PM!    

SAVE THE DATE - and SHARE our Facebook EVENT:   facebook.com/events/2070679976674450/
To help us estimate how many to expect, please REGISTER at this LINK  by FRIDAY, SEPT 12 or use the QR code.


Robert's Westside is owned by 2004 grad Donnie Biggins.  Berwyn Chicken Co. is owned by 2001 grad Brendan O'Connor.

THREE ALUMNI HONORED DURING FEBRUARY PRESENTATION

The annual TRADITION of EXCELLENCE awards were presented at a school-wide assembly held on Thursday, February 12. Three alumni were honored:
  * ROBERT “BUCK” HALPERIN, Class of 1927 (posthumous award)
  * MAJOR GENERAL DEVIN PEPPER, Class of 1987
  * EMERY LEHMAN, Class of 2014

BUCK HALPERIN was a college and professional athlete, a decorated military veteran, an Olympian and a businessman. He was one of Chicago`s most decorated figures in World War II.
MAJOR GENERAL DEVIN PEPPER is a military veteran and Space Force/NATO leader.  He is the first prior-enlisted, African American general officer in the SPACE FORCE, which was established in 2019 as the first new branch of the armed services since 1947. 
EMERY LEHMAN is a three-time Olympian in Speed Skating. He was the youngest speed skater at the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia at age 17, and the youngest male in the U.S. Olympic delegation that year.  

The selection of the honorees and presentation of the awards were coordinated by the STUDENT COUNCIL with support from the Student Council Faculty Sponsors Ms. DePasquale and Ms. Cermak and the Director of Student Activities, Angie Hawkins. The awards assembly included introductions and interviews conducted by members of the Student Council. Mr. Lehman was able to attend in person, Buck Halperin was represented by his son Daniel Halperin and Major General Pepper appeared via video link.

Read more about the Tradition of Excellence at this LINK and view more photos HERE.
 

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards its Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica. 

Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students. 

For the 2023-24 school year we awarded more than $47,000, including grants totaling over $34,000 on behalf of 26 students listed below for a variety of Summer 2024 programs.
In addition, we provided:
·         $9,500 to support 12 students for the Spring AP Art Trip to NYC in March 2024 (below is a montage of thank-you notes we received)
·         $3,500 to support 2 students to attend a Speech Competition in IOWA in June 2024   

We look forward to meeting many of these students at a reception on October 29 for them and their families.  It’s always enlightening to hear about their experiences and the impact of these summer programs.                                             

SEG SUMMER 2024 – Students and programs
CIEE Programs (Council on Internation Educational Exchange)
Alex A                 Spanish Language & Culture, Barcelona                       
Stella L               Study Abroad, Berlin, Germany
Sonja E               Social Justice in Dublin, Ireland         
Anna B               Mediterranean Ecosystems/Sustainability, Palma  de Mallorca, Spain      
Lucy S                 Mediterranean Ecosystems/Sustainability, Palma de Mallorca, Spain
Sara I                   Spanish Language & Culture, Palma de Mallorca, Spain  
Ryan H                French Language & Culture, Toulouse, France         
Thomas M         French Language & Culture, Toulouse, France         
Graham S           Honors French Language and Culture, Rennes, France    
Izaiah S                Ecology in Monteverde, Costa Rica
Sydney N            Youth Leadership & Development, Dominican  Republic                    
Penelope A       Video Game Design/STEM, Kyoto, Japan     
Lucy S                   Japanese Pop Culture, Anime and Manga, Tokyo, Japan
Emerson N        Language and  Culture Summer Program, Tokyo, Japan
Other program sponsors
Autumn B           EF Tours - 20th Century Japan                               
Emily C                 Oklahoma City University Musical Theater Intensive
Indigo F                Global Leaders, The Philippine Living Heritage Foundation             
Clara F                  New England Conservatory Summer Orchestra Institute
James H              School of Rock Oak Park, Show Team Rock in Rio
Dominika K       Parsons New School Summer Pre College Apparel Design
Carlos M             Trumpet Intensive, Private Lessons                  
Alejandro M      University of Michigan Musical Theatre M-Pulse Program
Talib M                  Brown University Pre-College Intro to Financial  Accounting          
Daniel P               Duo Piano Master Classes, Northwestern University           
Robert R              School of the Art Institute, Chicago Summer Institute        
Eric Y                      Illinois Inst. of Technology, Residential Program in Computer Sciences
 

UPDATED SCHOOL TOUR AND TICKET INFORMATION FOR FALL 2024

Check our Facebook group REUNIONS & ALUMNI EVENTS  for last-minute updates.

FOOTBALL TICKETS – All tickets this year are virtual and must be purchased online here.  This link includes both Home and Away games - use the filters at the top to find specific events.  This link is specific to HOME football games - these tickets are generally available to purchase about a week in advance of the game.

SCHOOL TOURS - With the assistance of the Buildings & Grounds Dept., the Alumni Association sponsors tours of the high school for class reunion groups.  These are guided group tours on Saturday mornings.  Due to construction and other factors, the format of tours this year may be different from tours in past years. We don’t require individual reservations.
However, we request that reunion committees contact the Alumni Office to verify that they would like a tour as soon as their date is set so we can get it on the calendar.  Prior to the tour date, we'd like an estimate of how many participants to expect. Please use this FORM to submit information on tour participants.

In general, tours begin around 10:00 AM and last about an hour.  The Main Entrance is kept locked - someone will be available to let you into the building at 9:45 AM.  If multiple reunions are taking place, or if there is a very large group (25-30+) we may offer several tours at staggered times. 

DUE TO CONSTRUCTION at the south end of the building, access to the Field House and other athletic areas will be limited.  If your group would like to meet up ahead of time, the Farmers Market (in the parking lot at Pilgrim Church across the street) has coffee and donuts for sale, often with musical entertainment.  The Parking Garage on Lake Street is OPEN but access to it may be limited due to construction.

SEPTEMBER 2024 TOURS are scheduled for these dates:

• Saturday, SEPT 7 @ 9:45 a.m. (Class of 1969)
• Saturday, SEPT 14 @ 9:45 a.m. (Classes of  1958, 1974)
• Saturday, SEPT 21 @ 9:45 a.m.  HOMECOMING WEEKEND (Classes of  1984 & 1994)
• ALL TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE.

Additional dates are planned. The list will be updated as new dates are approved by B & G.

(Note:   Due to ACT/SAT testing or other activities, certain areas of the building may be restricted on some dates.)

January 15, 2024

Is your student planning to participate in a summer enrichment program this year,  or a school-sponsored spring break program? If so, they are eligible to apply for a for a Bobbie Raymond Student Enrichment Grant scholarship from the Alumni Association. Named to honor one of our founding members and long-time president and community activist Roberta Wolin Raymond (OPRFHS '55) the Alumni Association provides these grants to students for academic-related enrichment opportunities. The goal is to provide enrichment and enhance motivation of students, particularly those with limited resources. Eligible students must be current freshmen, sophomores and juniors. Limited funds may be available to support school-sponsored trips/programs during the school year; seniors would be eligible to apply for those funds.

There are three parts to the application: #1 - an online portion, #2 - printed forms, and #3 - a Teacher recommendation.
All three parts must be submitted by the DEADLINE: WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 21 by the end of the school day.
Get more information and apply here.

This link has information about past SEG awards and program ideas.
This link has information about additional financial aid opportunities for Summer Enrichment.

Questions?  Get in touch with the Alumni Association. Call (708) 434-3281 or email alumniassociation@oprfhs.org.

January 22, 2024

Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, Oak Park and River Forest High School is celebrating the 150th anniversary of our founding in 1873 and the history of the high school. The Sesquicentennial Steering Committee has  a lot of plans to mark this milestone.  Check for details at this link: www.oprfhs.org/about/150th-anniversary

One project that is part of the 150th Anniversary is the SESQUICENTENNIAL VOLUNTEER CHALLENGE to reach a goal of 150,000 hours of community service by Huskies all over the world.  Any volunteer work that you do counts!  This link has more information with a form to submit your volunteer hours:  bit.ly/OPRF150k

There is also a wonderful exhibit of OPRFHS artifacts on display at the Oak Park River Forest MUSEUM located at 129 LAKE Street in Oak Park., including a full set of Tabula yearbooks available for browsing.  Check their website for hours and other information - https://oprfmuseum.org/

JANUARY 23, 2024

School tours - With the assistance of the Buildings & Grounds Dept., the Alumni Association sponsors tours of the high school for class reunion groups.  These are guided group tours on Saturday mornings and we request that reunion committees contact the Alumni Office to verify that they would like a tour for their group. 

In general, tours begin around 9:45 a.m. (or at a time requested by the committee) and last about an hour.  All are welcome! If multiple reunions are taking place, or if there is a very large group (25-30+) we may offer several tours at staggered times and class years may be combined in tour groups.

Football tickets – Information about tickets for football games will be available once school is in session.

(Note: Due to ACT/SAT testing, certain areas of the building may be restricted on some dates.)

October 27, 2023

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards its Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica.

Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students. 

Each fall, we host a reception for the students who received enrichment grants and their families.  This year, the reception was held on Monday, October 23.  We enjoyed meeting those students who attended and hearing about their experiences either via a slide-show presentation or a "show and tell" with artifacts and mementos.  We had a total of 15 presentations. Some examples of their work are posted on our Facebook page HERE. 

For  2023, a total of $25,820 was awarded on behalf of the 18 students listed below.  In addition, through a $2,588 donation to the PING! organization, four band and orchestra students received funding for a Spring Break trip to Nashville and New Orleans.

(pictured to the left are some of the 2023 students at the reception)

Student Enrichment Grant Awards and Programs (for summer 2023)

• Emily - Alison Kelly's Voice Studio
• Ella - CIEE French Language & Culture, Rennes, France
• Lucy - CIEE Climate Change Mitigation in Monteverde, Costa Rica
• Bennett - CIEE Paris -Fashion Design and French Culture
• Colleen - CIEE Paris Fashion Design and French Culture
• William - CIEE Spanish Language & Culture, Palma de Mallorca
• Iris - CIEE Arabic Language & Moroccan Culture, Morocco
• Finnegan - CIEE High School Abroad in Toulouse, France
• Daniel - CIEE French Language & Culture in Rennes, France (ses. I)
• Rachel - CIEE French Language & Culture, Rennes, France (ses. II)
• Jasper - CIEE Japanese Language & Pop Culture
• Sadie - CIEE Spanish Language & Argentinian Culture, Buenos Aires
• Aisha - CIEE-Spanish Language and Culture, Barcelona
• Nadjah - CIEE Worldwide destinations, summer session
• Julia - Education First (EF) Campus Internacional, Costa Rica
• Ashley - UCLA Film and Television Summer Institute, Digital Filmmaking
• Henry - School of the Art Institute of Chicago Advanced Projects
• Kanohi - School of the Art Institute Fashion Construction & Illustration

Click here for general information about applying for Student Enrichment Grants (SEG).

August 10, 2022

Now is the time to order your ALUMNI spirit wear.

Together with the Huskie Booster Club and Personalization House in Oak Park (127 Marion Street) we are thrilled to offer a selection of OPRFHS ALUMNI clothing. Styles include both long and short-sleeved T-shirts, long-sleeve sweatshirts, and hooded sweatshirts.  Sizes range from XS to 5XL, although not all styles are available in all sizes.  They feature the Alumni Association logo on the front; for an additional charge the back can be customized to include your class year.  Click here to view the available selection.

Please allow two weeks for production time; add another week if you're including your class year on the back.  Items can be shipped directly to you or you can pick them up at Personalization House.

May 1, 2023

Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, Oak Park and River Forest High School is celebrating the 150th anniversary of our founding in 1873 and the history of the high school. The Sesquicentennial Steering Committee has  a lot of plans to mark this milestone.  Check for details at this link: www.oprfhs.org/about/150th-anniversary

One project that is part of the 150th Anniversary is the Sesquicentennial Volunteer Challenge to reach a goal of 150,000 hours of community service by Huskies all over the world.  Any volunteer work that you do counts!  This link has more information with a form to submit your volunteer hours:  bit.ly/OPRF150k

Questions? Contact OPRFHS Executive Director of Communication and Community Relations Karin Sullivan at ksullivan@oprfhs.org. Thank you for your support!

AUGUST 6, 2023

Football tickets – All tickets this year are virtual and must be purchased online here. Use the filters at the top to find specific events.  Both home and away games are listed, as well as other sports and activities.  This link is specific to home football games. 

School tours - With the assistance of the Buildings & Grounds Dept., the Alumni Association sponsors tours of the high school for class reunion groups.  These are guided group tours on Saturday mornings on the dates listed below.  We don’t require individual reservations, though we request that reunion committees contact the Alumni Office to verify that they would like a tour, and give a rough estimate of how many participants to expect. 

In general, tours begin around 9:45 a.m. (or at a time requested by the committee).  All are welcome! If multiple reunions are taking place, or if there is a very large group (25-30+) we may offer several tours at staggered times.  If your group would like to meet up ahead of time, the Farmers Market (in the parking lot at Pilgrim Church across the street) has coffee and donuts for sale, often with musical entertainment. 

Tours this fall (2023) are scheduled for:  

• Saturday, SEPT 9 @ 9:45 a.m. (Class of 1970)
• Saturday, SEPT 23 @ 9:45 a.m. HOMECOMING WEEKEND (Classes of  1968, 1983, 1988 & 1993 )
  multiple tours @ 9:45 a.m. and every 15 minutes with the last group at 10:45 a.m.  Complimentary coffee and  pastries will be served beginning at 9:30 in the North Cafeteria.
• Saturday, SEPT 30  @ 9:45 a.m. (Classes of  1963 & 1978)
• Saturday, OCT 21 @ 9:45 a.m. (Classes of 1958 and 1973)
  ALL TIMES ARE APPROXIMATE.

(Note: Due to ACT/SAT testing, certain areas of the building may be restricted on some dates.)

October 27, 2023

Is your student planning to participate in a summer enrichment program this year,  or a school-sponsored spring break program? If so, they are eligible to apply for a for a Bobbie Raymond Student Enrichment Grant scholarship from the Alumni Association. Named to honor one of our founding members and long-time president and community activist Roberta Wolin Raymond (OPRFHS '55) the Alumni Association provides these grants to students for academic-related enrichment opportunities. The goal is to provide enrichment and enhance motivation of students, particularly those with limited resources. Eligible students must be current freshmen, sophomores and juniors. Limited funds may be available to support school-sponsored trips/programs during the school year; seniors would be eligible to apply for those funds.

Typical grant amounts range from $250 - $1000 depending on the cost of the program and the student and family's financial need.  We may exceed the $1000 maximum on a limited basis under special circumstances.  The absolute maximum award is $3,000.  All students are advised to have a lower-cost second choice program in mind.

There are three parts to the application: #1 - an online portion, #2 - printed forms, and #3 - a Teacher recommendation. All three parts must be submitted by the deadline stated on the form.  Please watch for announcements later this school year about applying for 2024.  Find more information on the application link below.

Get more information and apply here.
This link has information about past SEG awards and program ideas.
This link has information about additional financial aid opportunities for Summer Enrichment.

Questions?  Get in touch with the Alumni Association. Call (708) 434-3281 or email alumniassociation@oprfhs.org.

August 29, 2022

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards its Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica.

Since that first year, we have awarded over $570,000 on behalf of 798 students.  In addition, since many summer programs were cancelled due to covid-19 restrictions in 2020 and 2021, we awarded grants of $10,000 to Opportunity Knocks and $9,000 to the OPRFHS Theater Department for the 2021 Spring Musical.  These allocations benefitted dozens of students.

Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students. 

We've posted some pictures at  oprfalumni.shutterfly.com/pictures/10.

For summer 2022, a total of  $26,600 was awarded on behalf of 19 students.

2022 Summer Enrichment Grant Awards and Programs

• Arina - CIEE - High School Summer Abroad in PARIS FRANCE
• Ashley - The School of The New York Times
• Aurelia - University of Chicago Summer Immersion
• Ava - CIEE - Seville, SPAIN / Spanish Language & Culture
• Cameren - CIEE - Barcelona, SPAIN/ Spanish Language & Culture
• Clare - Notre Dame University Summer Scholars
• Harold - CIEE - German Language and Culture
• Jackson -  Tulane University Pre College Immersion
• Maxine - Chicago Youth Symphony European Tour/Berlin, Prague etc
• Natalie - CIEE - Ghana/Promoting Children's Rights and Education
• Octavio - AP Computer Science at Northwestern University
• Owen - Columbia University Summer Immersion: New York City
• Sage - Global Glimpse - Costa Rica/Culture & Environment/Sustainability
• Sophia - CIEE - Ghana/Promoting Children's Rights and Education
• Vivien - National Flight Academy, Pensacola, FL
• William - SOAR (program cancelled)
• William - CIEE - Denmark/Climate Change Policy & Advocacy
• Yeowon - Summer Intensives/ USA Gymnastics
• Tyler - Independent Study - Film & Production/Los Angeles (program cancelled)

Click here for general information about applying for Summer Enrichment Grants (SEG).

August 22, 2022

Football tickets – All tickets this year are virtual and must be purchased online here. Use the filters at the top to find specific events.  Both home and away games are listed, as well as other sports and activities.  This link is specific to home football games. 

School tours - With the assistance of the Buildings & Grounds Dept., the Alumni Association sponsors tours of the high school for class reunion groups.  These are guided group tours on Saturday mornings on the dates listed below.  We don’t require individual reservations, though we request that reunion committees contact the Alumni Office to verify that they would like a tour, and give a rough estimate of how many participants to expect. 

The main entrance at 201 N. Scoville will be open at 9:30 a.m. with tours beginning around 9:45 a.m. (or at a time requested by the committee).  All are welcome! If multiple reunions are taking place, or if there is a very large group (25-30+) we may offer several tours at staggered times.  If your group would like to meet up ahead of time, the Farmers Market (in the parking lot at Pilgrim Church across the street) has coffee and donuts for sale, often with musical entertainment. 

Tours are scheduled for:  

• Saturday, SEPT 10 @ 9:45 a.m. (Class of 1971)
• Saturday, SEPT 17 @ 9:45 a.m. (Class of 1987)
• Saturday, OCT 1 (multiple tours) @ 9:45 a.m. and every 15 minutes with the last group at 10:45 a.m. (Classes of 1962, 1972, 1977, and 1990) Complimentary coffee and  pastries will be served beginning at 9:30 in the North Cafeteria.
• Saturday, OCT 8 @ 9:45 a.m. (Classes of 1961 and 1982)

(Note: Due to ACT/SAT testing, certain areas of the building will be restricted on some dates.)

August 10, 2022

Now is the time to order your ALUMNI spirit wear.

Together with the Huskie Booster Club and Personalization House in Oak Park (127 Marion Street) we are thrilled to offer a selection of OPRFHS ALUMNI clothing. Styles include both long and short-sleeved T-shirts, long-sleeve sweatshirts, and hooded sweatshirts.  Sizes range from XS to 5XL, although not all styles are available in all sizes.  They feature the Alumni Association logo on the front; for an additional charge the back can be customized to include your class year.  Click here to view the available selection.

Please allow two weeks for production time; add another week if you're including your class year on the back.  Items can be shipped directly to you or you can pick them up at Personalization House.

June 29, 2022

Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, Oak Park and River Forest High School will be celebrating the 150th anniversary of our founding in 1873. We have a Sesquicentennial Steering Committee that has generated a lot of initial ideas, and now we're looking for volunteers to help us make them happen. We’re still in the early stages of planning, so there's lots of room for more input and ideas!

You don't need to live locally to get involved. If you're interested in helping, please complete this form.

Questions? Contact OPRFHS Executive Director of Communication and Community Relations Karin Sullivan at ksullivan@oprfhs.org. Thank you for your support!

February 28, 2022

If you received a recent email or postcard asking you to call a toll-free number and verify/provide your current contact information -- PLEASE DO RESPOND. It is not spam, it is legitimate. The number to call is (866) 589-0394 and if possible, provide the ID# in the lower right corner of the postcard.

Every 5-10 years or so the high school contracts with a publisher to compile updated information about its graduates. The last directory was published in 2012. The school does not pay for this service; the company makes money when alumni purchase copies of the directory or other merchandise. However, you are under NO OBLIGATION to make a purchase at all.

Also note that this information is completely separate from the donor and email records maintained by the Alumni Association, and NO INFORMATION is shared outside of the high school. If you would like more information about the directory project, please see the notice linked here.

February 9, 2022

Is your student planning to participate in a summer enrichment program this year? If so, they are eligible to apply for a for a Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarship from the Alumni Association. Named to honor one of our founding members and long-time president and community activist Roberta Wolin Raymond (OPRFHS '55) the Alumni Association provides these grants to students for academic-related summer enrichment opportunities. The goal is to provide enrichment and enhance motivation of students, particularly those with limited resources. Eligible students must be current freshmen, sophomores and juniors. For summer programs only, not those taking place during the school year.  Both in-person and remote programs are eligible.

Typical grant amounts range from $250 - $1000 depending on the cost of the program and the student and family's financial need.  We may exceed the $1000 maximum on a limited basis under special circumstances.  The absolute maximum award is $3,000.  All students are advised to have a lower-cost second choice program in mind.

There are three parts to the application: #1 - The online portion, #2 - The printed forms, and #3 - The Teacher recommendation. All three parts must be submitted by the deadline stated on the form.  Please watch for announcements later this school year about applying for Summer 2024.

For SUMMER programs only.  More information on the application link below.

Get more information and apply here.
This link has information about past SEG awards and program ideas.
This link has information about additional financial aid opportunities for Summer Enrichment.

Questions?  Get in touch with the Alumni Association. Call (708) 434-3281 or email alumniassociation@oprfhs.org.

January 14, 2022

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards its Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer. 

Click here to access the 2022 SEG application. Please note that the application includes three parts - the online form, printed forms, and a teacher recommendation.  The link above has information about the application process. The deadline to apply is Tuesday, March 8 at 3:30 p.m.

Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica. Since then we have awarded over $524,000 on behalf of 779 students.  We depend on our donors' support to help fund these enrichment opportunities for current students.

For summer 2020, a total of  $7,700 was distributed on behalf of 13 students. Five of these students participated in programs offered remotely and the other eight completed online requirements for OPRFHS Field Sciences courses.  For summer 2021, almost $22,000 was distributed on behalf of the 20 students listed below.  Since our first awards in 2003, more than $524,000 has been distributed on behalf of 556 students, including the $19,000 in grants listed above.  We've posted some pictures at oprfalumni.shutterfly.com/pictures/54.

Students looking for program ideas might consider the programs listed below, or those listed here. If you have interest in a particular subject area, your teacher or counselor may have some suggestions.

List of 2021 programs

• US Space Camp Aviation Challenge
• UCLA Clinical Summer Internship
• Northwestern University – Pre College Prep
• Pre-college Immersion, University of Chicago
• Blackbird Academy High School Summer Recording Camp
• Percussion Jazz Studies at Elmhurst College
• National Student Leadership Conference: Law Advocacy
• Sherman Lake YMCA Leadership Camp
• SAW-USA Portugal and Spain
• Abbey Road Programs - Florence, Italy
• German & Urban Arts at Berlin College, German Language School
• Global Glimpse Leadership Summit
• CIEE Global Entrepreneurship in Ireland
• CIEE Costa Rica - Climate Change
• CIEE Study Abroad, Alicante Spain
• CIEE Advanced Spanish Lang & Culture
• CIEE World Government

Note - There are no school-sponsored programs for summer 2022, and none took place in summer 2021.

December 15, 2021

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards its Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica. Since that first year, we have awarded over $524,000 on behalf of 779 students.  In addition, since many programs were cancelled due to covid-19 restrictions, we awarded grants of $10,000 in 2020 to Opportunity Knocks and $9,000 in 2021 to the OPRFHS Theater Department to cover additional production costs for the 2021 Spring Musical.  Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students.

We've posted some pictures at  oprfalumni.shutterfly.com/pictures/54.

For summer 2020, a total of  $7,700 was distributed on behalf of 13 students. Five of these students participated in programs offered remotely and the other eight completed online requirements for OPRFHS Field Sciences courses.  For summer 2021, almost $22,000 was distributed on behalf of the 20 students listed below.  Since our first awards in 2003, more than $524,000 has been distributed on behalf of 556 students, including the $19,000 in grants listed above..  

LIST OF 2021 SEG RECIPIENTS and PROGRAMS

• Emery - US Space Camp Aviation Challenge
• William - US Space Camp Aviation Challenge
• Rylee - UCLA Clinical Summer Internship
• Sofia - Northwestern University – Pre College Prep
• Charlie - Pre-college Immersion, University of Chicago
• Will - Blackbird Academy High School Summer Recording Camp
• Todd - Percussion Jazz Studies at Elmhurst College
• Kaleigh - National Student Leadership Conference: Law Advocacy
• Sofia - Sherman Lake YMCA Leadership Camp
• Jessica - SAW-USA Portugal and Spain
• Sarah - Abbey Road Programs - Florence, Italy
• Abigail - German & Urban Arts at Berlin College, German Language School
• Anna - Global Glimpse Leadership Summit
• Michael - Global Glimpse Leadership Summit
• Ezekiel - CIEE Global Entrepreneurship in Ireland
• Carl - CIEE Costa Rica - Climate Change
• Matylda - CIEE Costa Rica - Climate Change
• Leah - CIEE Study Abroad, Alicante Spain
• Zevdah - CIEE Advanced Spanish Lang & Culture
• Eleanor - CIEE World Government

November 9, 2021

Two alumni events are still coming up this fall:

Water polo alumni match

The water polo alumni match is scheduled for Saturday, Nov. 27. This annual tradition took a breather (pun intended) last year, but it's back!  Warm-ups start at 11 a.m. and the match will run from 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m. Suggested "Pay to Play" donation is $20. Check out the Facebook event post here for more details. 

Classes of 1976 and 1977 joint reunion

Alumni who graduated in 1976 and 1977 are holding a joint reunion get-together on Saturday, Dec. 4 at Goldy's Restaurant in Forest Park starting at 6 p.m. To make it easier, everyone will pay for their own drinks and order off the menu.  Connect with your classmates via the class Facebook group here. If you plan to attend, please reply on Facebook or email Paul Hefner (paulmhefner@yahoo.com) to let him know so he has a general idea of attendance. 
Note: Goldy's is cash only.

August 23, 2021

UPDATE:  We are very sorry, but SCHOOL TOURS WILL NOT BE OFFERED this fall. (9/1/2021). 
Reunions taking place include: 1966, 1985, 1986 and 1991. (All will take place over Homecoming Weekend, 9/24-25.)  More information here.

Due to the changing COVID-19 situation and evolving mitigation requirements, some class reunion plans may have changed.  Many 2020 reunions were cancelled last year or postponed to this fall, and now we are learning that some 2021 reunions have been postponed to 2022.  Please check our reunions web page for the latest news. Those of you working on planning committees, be sure to let us know as your plans develop by sending an email to alumniassociation@oprfhs.org.

December 14, 2020

The Oak Park and River Forest High School Alumni Association has awarded community non-profit Opportunity Knocks with a one-time $10,000 grant. This is the first time in the history of the association that a grant of this size has been awarded to a local organization. Since 2003, the association has awarded grants to OPRF students to use for summer enrichment programs. However, most of the summer programs were cancelled due to COVID-19, and the likelihood of programs running in summer 2021 is uncertain.

In looking at how to distribute the funds raised for this year, association board member Therese Brennock made the suggestion to consider Opportunity Knocks for a one-time donation. 

“I received a call from a former OPRFHS student, Katrina Jeffries, right after our fall alumni board meeting,” said Brennock. “Katrina has participated in Opportunity Knocks programming for several years and told me that [they] really needed donations due to fundraising event cancellations.”

Based in River Forest, Opportunity Knocks serves young people in Oak Park, River Forest, and Forest Park who have intellectual and developmental disabilities through social, recreational, and life-skills programming. Executive Director Mike Carmody and President Phil Carmody, both OPRFHS grads, were blown away by the news about the grant, calling it a “blessing when we needed some help up off the mat.”

“It came on the heels of us realizing some other significant fundraising shortfalls due to pandemic-related challenges,” Mike said. “The framework of our program platform has become more demanding than ever with new technology and PPE investments needed to ensure our virtual and onsite program formats are safe and fully accessible.”.

“The more I thought about it, the more a donation to Opportunity Knocks made complete sense,” said Brennock. “It is run by OPRFHS alumni, they employ alumni and the majority of students they serve are alumni from the TEAM/CITE program [at OPRFHS], and they also have an enormous alumni following.”

Aligning with its mission to assist students with limited resources, the Alumni Association has requested the grant cover program costs for Opportunity Knocks participants who have the greatest financial need.

For more information about Opportunity Knocks, click here.

October 1, 2020

The OPRFHS Class of 1990 will be holding a virtual Halloween gathering on Saturday, Oct. 31, 2020, 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. CST to commemorate their 30-year reunion. For more info, contact Bubba Murray at oprf1990@gmail.com and visit the class Facebook page (@oprf90) where updates will be posted as plans develop. 

August 27, 2020

UPDATE:  A more recent announcement from the IHSA concerning high school athletics was issued on November 19 and is linked here.

For the current school year, the IHSA (Illinois High School Association) has rearranged the athletics schedules for many sports. There will be FOUR seasons: Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer extending across these dates, though all sports are currently paused (as of mid-December): 

• Fall: August 10 to October 24
• Winter: November 16 to February 13
• Spring: February 15 to May 1
• Summer: May 3 to June 26

Several sports will shift to new seasons, including football, boys soccer, and girls volleyball moving from the fall to the spring. IHSA boys and girls golf, girls tennis, cross country and girls swimming & diving will remain as fall sports.  More information is available here.

June 19, 2020

We have modified our presence on Facebook and have added an OPRFHS ALUMNI ASSOCIATION page here. Please LIKE and FOLLOW our page so our updates will appear in your newsfeed.  There are also two public groups with additional information:

• REUNIONS & ALUMNI EVENTS group to share updates about class reunions
• ALUMNI NETWORKING group to share other news and network with fellow alumni

Both groups are public so anyone can see the posts, but in order to comment or post yourself, you need to request to join the group.  We hope to "see" you there.

March 12, 2020

The Board of the OPRFHS Alumni Association held its Annual Meeting on Monday, March 9 and the following slate of officers was approved:

Officers

• Chairman - Theresa Guarino Lipo
• Vice-Chairman - Scyla (Murray) Baielli
• Treasurer - Karen Barg Baldwin

Board Members

• Scyla Murray Baielli - Class of 1986; current faculty
• Karen Barg Baldwin - Class of 1984
• Colleen Phelan Biggins - Class of 1972; retired faculty 
• Therese Brennock - Class of 1977; retired faculty
• Kevin Bry - Class of 1980
• John Costopoulos - Class of 1980; retired faculty
• Pati Carpenter Dossey - Class of 1976                                       
• Tom Kerrins - Class of 1968
• Theresa Guarino Lipo - Class of 1982

Honorary (Founding) Board Members

• William Adelman - Class of 1951 (in memoriam)
• Morris Buske, Class of ___; retired faculty (in memoriam)
• Roberta Wolin Raymond Larson - Class of 1955 (in memoriam)
• Virginia Robie Cassin - Class of 1942
• Alice Sinkevitch - Class of 1971                         
• William B. Sullivan - Class of 1984

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica. Since that first year, we have awarded over $481,000 on behalf of 556 students.  That includes $61,490 awarded for summer 2019 on behalf of 53 current OPRFHS students.  Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students.

On Monday evening, October 28 we hosted our annual Dessert Reception for the 2019 SEG students and their families.  As always, it was a wonderful evening that gave us an opportunity to meet the students and hear about their adventures - what they learned and the challenges they faced.  They studied dance, music, foreign languages, engineering, humanities and much more.  Many of them had their first experience living on a college campus.  Others on foreign travel programs had the experience of living with a host family. The students learn so much from these experiences and we feel lucky to have played a part.  We've posted some pictures at oprfalumni.shutterfly.com/pictures/54.

For summer 2019, a total of  $61,490 was distributed to these programs on behalf of 53 students. Since our first awards in 2003, more than $481,000 has been distributed on behalf of 556 students.  

LIST OF 2019 SEGS PROGRAMS

OPRFHS-sponsored programs (28 total students) 

• OPRF James Joyce IRELAND program (9 students)
• OPRF Science Costa Rica Tropical Ecology Course (8 students) 
• OPRF World Languages SPAIN program (7 students)
• OPRF Global Leadership Summit (3 students)
• OPRF Marching Band camp (1 student)

Outside programs (25 students)

• CIEE - various countries and topics (7 students)
• Global Glimpse (2 students)
• National Student Leadership conference - various topics (3 students)
• Music/performance including University of Illinois, Blue Lake Fine Arts camp, Berklee School of Music (4 students)
• Pre-college programs including Carnegie Mellon and Northwestern University (4 students)
• Math/science/engineering at Rose Hultman Institute, Duke University and University of Illinois (3 students)
• University of Michigan Debate Camp (1 student)
• Film-making studies at University of North Carolina (1 student)

Is your student planning to participate in a summer enrichment program this year?   If so, they are eligible to apply for a for a Bobbie Raymond Summer Enrichment Grant scholarship from the Alumni Association.  Named to honor one of our founding members and long-time president and community activist Roberta Wolin Raymond (OPRFHS '55) the Alumni Association provides these grants to students for academic-related SUMMER enrichment opportunities.  The goal is to provide enrichment and enhance motivation of students, particularly those with limited resources. Eligible students must be current freshmen, sophomores and juniors. For summer programs only, not those taking place during the school year.

We typically offer two application periods: an earlier deadline (mid-January) for OPRFHS-sponsored programs and a later deadline (late February) for any program. The application is completed online but there are some forms that must be printed, completed, and signed.  Applications are reviewed together after the appropriate deadline has passed. Typical grant amounts range from $250 - $1,000 depending on the cost of your program and financial need.  We may exceed the $1,000 maximum on a very limited basis under special circumstances.

Note: The entire application including the online portion, the printed portion, and the teacher recommendation must be submitted by the deadline in order to be eligible for consideration. 

Get more information and apply here.
This link has information about past SEG awards and program ideas.
This link has information about additional financial aid opportunities for Summer Enrichment.

Questions?  Get in touch with the Alumni Association. Call (708) 434-3281 or email alumniassociation@oprfhs.org.

It's time for 2019 REUNIONS! For more information, be sure to check our reunions web page. 

The 2019 Huskies football schedule includes home games on the following Friday nights: Sept. 6, Sept. 20, Oct. 11, and Oct. 25 with the Homecoming game on Friday, Oct. 11.  Find more info on football tickets and parking  here.

Reunions this fall include: 1959, 1969, 1979, 1984, 1989, and 1999.

Homecoming events for Alumni include:

• Friday Night Football
  • Kickoff for the football game vs. Downers Grove North on Friday, Oct 11 is set for 7:30 p.m. following the sophomore game. Tickets are required to enter the stadium and can be purchased at the stadium Box Office on Lake Street.
• Saturday morning coffee and school tours
  • Coffee and doughnuts will be served in the North Cafeteria -- Doors open at 9:15 a.m. Group tours will be given with the first beginning at 9:45 a.m. and then every 15 minutes. Tours are about an hour with the last tour beginning around 10:30 a.m.  ALL ARE WELCOME!

May 7, 2019

UPDATE:  The memorial and celebration of Bobbie Raymond's life and impact on our community took place on Wednesday, June 12 at 10 a.m. at the Oak Park Arts Center, 200 N. Oak Park Ave. Many members of the community were present to join share this opportunity to honor and remember someone who has made such important and varied contributions to Oak Park and beyond.

We are very sad to share the news of the passing of OPRFHS Alumni Association founder and board president ROBERTA (BOBBIE) RAYMOND LARSON on Tuesday, May 5 after a brief illness. Bobbie was a co-founder of the Alumni Association in 2002 and helped initiate the Summer Enrichment Grant Program. To date, this program has granted more than $450,000 to over 500 OPRFHS students, helping them experience summer academic and cultural arts programs that may have been financially out of reach.

As most know, Bobbie was the leading figure of Oak Park’s fair housing efforts, helping Oak Park maintain racial desegregation through the Oak Park Housing Center, which she founded to help fight the white flight and racist real estate practices of that era. Bobbie continued to head the Oak Park Housing Center until the 1980s. Her contributions to Oak Park went far beyond this important era however and the list of her involvements is too lengthy to fully detail, but include leadership roles with the Oak Park Art League, Oak Park Economic Development Corporation, and Oak Park-River Forest Community Foundation.

Above all, she was a tireless advocate for Oak Park and River Forest High School, never hesitating to call administrators, teachers, and district leaders on issues she believed were important to maintaining the school’s high standards. Her work with the Alumni Association’s Summer Enrichment Grant program demonstrated her belief that all students deserved equal access to activities that can enhance their high school experience and provide them with lifelong impact. It is no exaggeration to say that generations of high school alumni have benefitted from the tireless advocacy of Bobbie Raymond.

Obituaries:

• Wednesday Journal
• New York Times

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards Summer Enrichment Grant scholarships on behalf of current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic enrichment programs over the summer.  Our first year, in 2003, we provided $3,500 to help five students participate in a Tropical Ecology Field Sciences course in Costa Rica. Since that first year, we have awarded over $420,000 on behalf of 503 students.  That includes $60,850 awarded for summer 2018 on behalf of 62 current OPRFHS students.  Your support will help fund enrichment opportunities for current students.

On Monday evening, October 29  we hosted our annual Dessert Reception for the 2018 SEG students and their families.  It was a wonderful evening as it gave us an opportunity to meet the students and hear about their adventures - what they learned and the challenges they faced.  They studied dance, music, foreign languages, engineering, humanities and much more.  Many of them had their first experience living on a college campus.  Others on foreign travel programs had the experience of living with a host family. The students learn so much from these experiences and we feel lucky to have played a part.  We've posted some pictures at  oprfalumni.shutterfly.com/pictures/54.

For summer 2018, a total of  $60,850 was distributed to these programs on behalf of 62 students. Since our first awards in 2003, more than $420,000 has been distributed on behalf of 503 students.  

LIST OF 2018 SEGS PROGRAMS

OPRFHS-affiliated programs (34 students)

FIELD SCIENCES (students receive a science credit for these courses)
• UK Summer Field Ecology in Britain and Wales (6 students)
• Costa Rica Tropical Ecology (7 students)
• Florida Marine Biology Field Studies (5 students)

OTHER OPRFHS programs
• Global Glimpse World Studies (3 students)
• Huskie Marching Band Camp (2 students)
• Japanese Exchange Program (9 students)
• Universal Dance Association Camp (2 students)

OUTSIDE PROGRAMS/SPONSORS (non-OPRF affiliated) (28 students)
• CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange) (11 students)
  various programs in Arabic, French, Italian, and Spanish Language & Culture,
  Marine Biology, Children's Rights in Ghana, and Sustainable Earth Studies
• National Youth Leadership Medicine/Healthcare Studies  (3 students)
• OTHER (14 students)
  o Education and Children's Rights (2 students)
  o Creative Arts Studio
  o University of Michigan Debate Camp
  o YMCA Camp Edwards Leadership in Training
  o ARCC Adventures Cross Country Costa Rica
  o ArtsBridge Summer Musical Theater
  o Brown University Leadership Institute
  o Carleton College Pre-College: Summer Humanities Institute
  o Centro Mundo Lengua Spanish Language
  o Outward Bound rock climbing and rafting
  o San Francisco Conservatory of Dance Summer Intensive
  o School of the Art Institute Summer Early College Program
  o The Road Less Traveled – Iceland Service Adventure

Information and application forms for Summer 2019 are available here. Note: The application period for 2019 is CLOSED.  Additional financial aid opportunities are listed here.

Information on some of the OPRFHS sponsored programs is available at these links:
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/Interdisciplinaries
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/English
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/Science-and-Technology

January 21, 2019

On Friday, Nov. 9, Oak Park and River Forest High School presented the 2018 Tradition of Excellence awards to three alumni. Established by the class of 1982, the award is presented annually to alumni or former students who have distinguished themselves professionally and who, through their accomplishments, have brought great credit to their alma mater. These distinguished alumni are honored at a brunch following the awards presentation at a student assembly. This year’s honorees are:

ALVIN HOLM

Nationally Recognized Architect, Class of 1954
Growing up in Oak Park, Alvin Holm was heavily influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright’s modernist work and Chicago’s classical architecture. After graduating from Yale in 1958 and the University of Pennsylvania in 1962, Mr. Holm spent 10 years as a project designer in Philadelphia, while teaching at both the Philadelphia College of Art and Drexel University. In 1976, he opened his own office, focusing heavily on restoration work and historical architecture. Several years later, he turned to traditional design styles, which is what he practices to this day. 

As a founding member of the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art, Mr. Holm is acknowledged as an early leader in the rising movement toward a New American Renaissance. He has received several honors and awards throughout his career, including the American Institute of Architects Honor Award for the design of galleries at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Arthur Ross Award from the Institute of Classical Architecture & Art.

MICHELLE McNAMARA

Writer and Journalist, Class of 1988
Michelle McNamara knew from a young age that she wanted to be a writer. At OPRF, she was named editor-in-chief of Trapeze, the high school’s student newspaper. She went on the major in English at the University of Notre Dame and earned a Master of Fine Arts degree from the University of Minnesota. 

After moving to Los Angeles to write for television and films, Ms. McNamara developed a growing interest in an unsolved Oak Park murder from her teenage years. This led to the creation of a website dedicated to solving cold cases, True Crime Diary. Ms. McNamara’s particular interest in the crimes of an unidentified serial rapist and killer in California, whom she named the “Golden State Killer,” led to an LA Magazine article and a subsequent book deal from HarperCollins. Before her book, “I’ll Be Gone in the Dark,” was completed, Ms. McNamara died on April 21, 2016. Her husband, actor Patton Oswalt; her researcher, Paul Haynes; and Billy Jensen, an investigative journalist, completed it posthumously. Just over two years after Ms. McNamara’s death, on April 25, 2018, the Golden State Killer was identified and arrested. Ms. McNamara is credited with igniting a renewed interest in the case. 

PAUL ROACH

United States Naval Medical Officer, Class of 1985
Following his graduation from OPRF, Paul Roach attended Loyola University Chicago and Rush Medical College. He continued to pursue a career in medicine as a surgical intern at Oakland Naval Hospital in 1995, and completed his residency in General Surgery at the University of Maryland in 2003. A fellowship in Complex Surgical Oncology at the University of Chicago followed. 

Mr. Roach served two tours as a U.S. Naval Flight Surgeon, the first in Okinawa, Japan, and the second at Naval Air Station Washington D.C. He also served one overseas tour as a general surgeon in Sicily, and three tours as a combat surgeon in Afghanistan and Iraq. Stateside, he has worked at two Navy hospitals as a general and oncologic surgeon, the Naval Medical Center in Portsmouth, Vir., and Lovell Federal Health Care Center in North Chicago. 

Mr. Roach is married with three daughters and is the author of one novel, The End, and one nonfiction memoir, Citizen-Surgeon.

October 21, 2018

Both events will be taking place over Thanksgiving weekend.  The Class of 2008 is holding its 10-year reunion on Friday, Nov. 23 at The Tunnel on W. Kinzie in Chicago.  More information and a link to purchase tickets is available here.  Receive a discount for advance purchases.

The 7th Annual Paul Eckenroad Memorial Boys Water Polo Alumni Match takes place at the high school on Saturday, Nov. 24 with warm-ups at 11 a.m. and the game from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.  Cost is $20 with all proceeds going to the boys water polo program.  More info on their Facebook page here or contact Isaac Rothenbaum at (708) 220-7614. 

Composed of two classes of (mostly) juniors and seniors who meet each school day, the Incubator is an elective class that immerses young men and women in the various elements of entrepreneurship necessary to launch a business, whether it be product- or service-based. View their Facebook page here.

If you're interested in helping, the investment of time can be:

• as brief as a one or two mornings to speak to the two classes (as a subject matter expert or coach)
• as in-depth as serving as a mentor who meets every week or two throughout the school year with a team of four students.
• something in between those time-commitment examples -- there are ample opportunities to volunteer and sow into students’ experiences.

Want to learn more? Know someone who may be interested in learning more?

Please contact OPRFHS teacher Matt Prebble at mprebble@oprfhs.org or Matt Baron, the Incubator’s Community Champion, at matt@insideedgepr.com.

Thank you!

Matt Prebble and Matt Baron, 708-860-1380

History of the Business Incubator class

In its inaugural year (2017-18), the OPRF Business Incubator benefited tremendously from the talent and time of volunteers from throughout the Oak Park, River Forest and outlying community. To those who have already volunteered, a big “THANK YOU” for your support!  We would welcome your support again this year, whether it’s volunteering or helping spread the word so we can benefit from others with a desire to volunteer.

Related Links:          

• The National Incubator Edu organization that provides our framework.
• Wednesday Journal story from the program’s launch
• Observations from an OPRFHS volunteer

September 9, 2018

Alumni short sleeve t-shirts. Navy, Orange or White in ladies sizes* and Orange or Navy in men's sizes. 

Pay by check or credit card. Cost is $16 plus $5 shipping, if needed.  Please specify the size you prefer and your grad year (if applicable) in the space provided on the form when you place your order. **Please contact us to verify size and color availability before placing your order.**  

SIZES AVAILABLE - Quantities are limited. Please contact us before you make a payment so we can check inventory.

• Ladies' in Small, Medium, Large, X-Large, and XX-Large
• Men's in Large, X-Large, and XX-Large

Note:  Ladies' shirts are a fitted style,  men's are a looser style.

Call (708) 434-3281 or send an email to alumniassociation@oprfhs.org for more information or use this link.

September 5, 2018

The high school and the Alumni Association  are hosting a Coffee Hour on Saturday, September 22 in the South Cafeteria.  Coffee and doughnuts will be served beginning at 9:30 a.m. until approximately 11:30 a.m.  Group tours of the school will be offered beginning around 9:45 a.m. starting in the Student Commons.  The guided tours last about an hour and will depart approximately every 15-20 minutes starting at 9:45 a.m.  Anyone is welcome to join any tour, so class years may be mixed.  

Football tickets cost $5 and must be purchased at the ticket window near the Lake Street entrance of the Stadium.  Box Office opens at 4:30 p.m. The sophomore game is played first with the Varsity kick-off set for 7:30 p.m. 

January 18, 2018

Is your student planning to participate in a summer enrichment program this year?  If so, they are eligible to apply for a Summer Enrichment Grant Scholarship from the Alumni Association. Please watch for news about the 2019 application period. The application is completed ONLINE but there are some forms that must be printed, completed and signed.

Note: Information for Summer 2019 applications will be available later this fall.

Get more information and apply here.

Questions? Get in touch with the Alumni Association. Call (708) 434-3281 or email alumniassociation@oprfhs.org.

October 29, 2017

It's that time of year again! Get your speedo re-fitted, trade your pacifier in for a mouthguard, and start training because "The South Pool Showdown" is a cruel mistress. You know the drill: Even years vs odd years. Battle to the death. Losing team sacrifices their youngest player to the Water Polo gods and begs for mercy. 

As always, I'm putting my finest gold dubloons on the odd years. They won it last year and the bunions on my feet are telling me they're due for a repeat.

Saturday, November 25th. 
$20 Pay-to-Play donation 
(*all money goes to the OPRF boys water polo team)
(**please make checks out to OPRFHS with memo "boys water polo")
Warm-ups at 11:00 a.m.

Info on Facebook here.

October 29, 2017

Here is  the West Suburban Conference Huskies home football schedule for next fall.  Listed below are the dates for Huskies HOME football games - all games are on FRIDAY nights in the Stadium with the varsity kick-off scheduled for 7:30 PM (following the sophomore game).  For those interested in reunions, please note that if you'd like to arrange a tour of the High School, these can be set up for most Saturday mornings or Friday afternoons (after 4 PM - Friday tours not available at Homecoming)

The high school has selected September 21-22 for Homecoming.  The game will be Friday 9/21 and the dance will be Saturday  9/22.

HUSKIES FOOTBALL - HOME SCHEDULE

• 8/24/2018* vs. WV 
• 9/14/2018* vs. MORTON 
• 9/21/2018* vs. PROVISO WEST (Homecoming)
• 10/05/2018* vs. YORK 
• 10/19/2018* vs. LYONS TOWNSHIP

October 5, 2017

Information and application forms for Summer 2019 is not yet available.  Please watch for news later this fall. 

If you're curious about the process, 2018 Summer Enrichment Grant Scholarship information and application forms are posted here. Additional financial aid opportunities are listed here. 

Each year, through the generosity of its alumni, the Alumni Association awards Summer Enrichment Grants to current OPRFHS students to help them participate in exciting academic programs over the summer.  On Monday evening, October 30  we hosted our annual Dessert Reception for the 2017 SEG students and their families.  As always , it was a wonderful experience and we enjoyed having the opportunity to meet the students and hear about their adventures and what they learned over the summer.  They studied dance, music, foreign languages, engineering, aeronautics and much more.  Many of them had their first experience living on a college campus.  Others on foreign travel programs had the experience of living with a host family. The students learn so much from these experiences and we feel lucky to have played a part.  We've posted some pictures at  oprfalumni.shutterfly.com/pictures/54.

For the summer of 2017, a total of  $64,500 was distributed to these programs on behalf of  71 students. Since our first awards in 2003, more than $360,000 has been distributed on behalf of 441 students.  

LIST OF 2017 SEGS PROGRAMS

Chicago Children's Choir Tour to Italy
Global Glimpse European Exchange
CIEE Summer Lang/Culture Rennes, France
CIEE Summer Lang/Culture Madrid, Spain
CIEE Summer Lang/Culture in Germany
CIEE Summer Lang/Culture in Peru
CIEE Summer Lang/Culture in Morocco
Embry Riddle Aeronautical Discovery Camp in Florida
Engineering Innovations at Johns Hopkins University
Science and Engineering Explorations at University of Illinois, Urbana
Youth Music Workshop at University of Illinois, Urbana
Blue Lake Fine Arts Camp, Blue Lake Michigan
Speech and Communications at Illinois State University, Normal 
AAU Karate Nationals Competition 

A total of 20 students participated in the programs listed above. Another 51 students participated in the OPRFHS-sponsored programs listed below.

British History and Culture    (9 students)
Language and Culture in Centro Mundo Spain    (4 students)
Tropical Ecology Field Science in Costa Rica    (4 students)
Savannah Ecology Field Science in Tanzania    (11 students)
James Joyce Literature Studies in Ireland    (3 students)
New Zealand Cultural Exchange    (7 students)
PING! Huskie Marching Band Camp    (6 students)
Universal Dance Association Drill Team Camp   (7 students)

Information on some of the OPRFHS sponsored programs is available at these links:
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/Interdisciplinaries
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/English
www.oprfhs.org/SEE/Science-and-Technology

August 24, 2017

It's almost time for FRIDAY NIGHT FOOTBALL!  Here's the schedule of home games:
The Sophomore game kicks-off at 5 p.m. followed by the Varsity at 7:30 p.m. (approximately)

• Friday, September 1 - the home opener vs. Downers Grove South
• Friday, September 8 - vs. Hinsdale Central
• Friday, September 29 - vs. Downers Grove North
• Friday, October 13 - vs. Glenbard West (HOMECOMING)

Tickets are $5.00 each for adults, and $2 for children. CASH ONLY. They can be purchased at the stadium box office on Lake Street beginning 30 minutes before game time (generally 4:30 PM)  More info here.

Please note the parking restrictions in the neighborhood. For directions and parking information, visit this link: oprfhs.org/maps-directions-and-parking.