By: Cat Pastoor
College of DuPage honored five alumni who have forged distinguished careers and have attained outstanding achievements during the 2024 Distinguished Alumni Awards Reception.
Alumni honored for their accomplishments are Kristin Crowley-Morgan, Dr. Ruby Kaur, John Laukaitis, Dan Markwell and Princeton J. Youker.
Learn more about COD’s 2024 Distinguished Alumni:
Kristin Crowley-Morgan, Investigative Journalist (’04)
Kristin Crowley has carved a remarkable path in journalism, building on her early education in the field. Attending College of DuPage from 2003 to 2004, Kristin focused on journalism before transferring to Columbia College Chicago, where she earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism in 2006. At COD, Kristin was not only a dedicated student but also demonstrated her leadership as the captain of the Women’s Soccer Team and her commitment to the College as a member of the Mass Communications Advisory Board since October 2020. Kristin’s career is marked by a series of high-profile roles, including her current position as a National Reporter for InvestigateTV+.
Dr. Ruby Kaur, Ed.D, MPT, Health Education Leader (’97)
Dr. Ruby Kaur began her academic journey at College of DuPage, completing her general education in 1996-1997 before earning a master’s in physical therapy from Governors State University and a Doctor of Education from Aurora University. With a passion for health sciences, she served as a Professor of Anatomy and Physiology at COD and is now Chair of Health Science and Pre-Professional Medical Programs at Aurora University. Beyond teaching, Dr. Kaur is involved in various committees at Aurora, including DEI, Faculty Development, and General Education/Core Curriculum. She also founded the Cultural Fest Committee and advises both the HOSA and Pre-Dental clubs. Her commitment to service extends into the community, where she is President of the Sikh Seva Foundation of Chicago, Youth Liaison with the Unity Partnership Organization in DuPage County, and a member of the MLK Advisory Committee. Additionally, she directs youth activities at the Illinois Sikh Community Center in Wheaton.
Dr. John Laukaitis, Scholar (’03)
Dr. John Laukaitis, a College of DuPage alumnus from the Class of 1990, has made significant contributions to education and academia. After earning his Associate of Arts at COD, he earned a Bachelor of Arts in English and Secondary Education from Southern Illinois University, a Master of Science in Educational Administration from Northern Illinois University, a Master of Arts in Humanities from Northwestern University, and a Ph.D. in Cultural and Educational Policy Studies from Loyola University Chicago. Dr. Laukaitis has had a distinguished career, including twelve years as a high school teacher and twenty years in higher education. He is currently Professor of Education at North Park University and has published extensively in the field of history of education.
Dan Markwell, Information Technology Professional (’18)
Dan Markwell, College of DuPage Class of 2018, graduated with honors, earning an Associate of Applied Science in Technical Support Specialist and an Associate of General Studies. His commitment to excellence is demonstrated by his completion of the IT Infrastructure Library Foundation’s Certification and CompTIA A+ certification in 2020. While a student, Dan actively contributed to the COD community, participating in the Honors Program and in 2017 was elected to the College's Board of Trustees. He currently serves as the Information Technology Support Team Lead at AdventHealth and continues his service to the College as a member of the public on the Budget and Centennial Committees of the Board of Trustees.
Princeton J. Youker, Law Enforcement Leader (’99)
Princeton Youker, a 1999 graduate of College of DuPage, has built a distinguished career in law enforcement, culminating in his recent appointment as Chief of the Wheaton Police Department in September 2023. His educational journey began at COD, where he earned an Associate of Science degree in Psychology, participated in the Honors Program, and was inducted into Phi Theta Kappa. He continued his studies at Penn State University, earning a Bachelor of Science in Sociology with a focus on Criminology, and later obtained a master’s degree in management and organizational behavior from Benedictine University. With a commitment to public service, leadership, and community safety, over his two-decade career, Princeton rose through the ranks of the Wheaton Police Department, serving in various roles including Deputy Chief, Patrol Lieutenant, Sergeant, Detective, and Patrol Officer.