The Bulls, The Suns, and Jordin Sparks

Two of the best things about Midwestern University are the great locations of our campuses. This spring, our hometowns have seen their basketball teams win their way into the second round of the NBA playoffs and a local girl make it to the final four of American Idol.

At our Downers Grove Campus, we have a beautiful setting nestled amidst a forest preserve with trees, wildlife, and great open spaces. The suburban location provides comfort and a safe environment. About 25 miles to the east lies the city of Chicago, with its grand lakefront, world-class restaurants and entertainment, culture and museums, and top-notch academic health care system. The climate features the best of all four seasons, from our notorious winters to colorful fall foliage to warm summers. At our Glendale Campus, we have a brand-new campus nestled underneath the foothills. Set in a growing city, Glendale boasts brand new hockey and football stadiums and will host the Super Bowl next year. About 15 miles to the southeast looms downtown Phoenix, with its entertainment areas, museums, and excellent dining options. Wherever you are in the Valley, the sun shines more than 300 days a year and you won't see any snow or cold.

Now, I certainly hope the Bulls and the Suns win their next series, but after rough opening games, they have their work cut out for them. If I were to place a bet, however, it would be on Glendale's own Jordin Sparks to win American Idol this year. It has been fun to live in the hometown of one of the Idol's finalists. The new Westgate Center in Glendale hosts the show each week on a big screen, where Jordin's fans can watch her larger than life smile to match her larger than life voice. As we've heard again and again, she is only 17 and she sings like a pro. Of all the contestants, we have watched her improve each week and give genuine performances. This is the first year I have actually cast a vote for American Idol, and week after week my vote is for Jordin. So, on behalf of one of MWU's hometown favorites, let's bring Jordin a well-deserved victory!