Each month we will feature a member of our alumni (the League of Knights) to highlight their accomplishments after graduating from IC Catholic Prep. This month, we spoke to alumni that are on the front lines providing everyday essential services.
Susan Conran Fronczak, class of 1972, is feautred in this spotlight. Susan studied nursing at Trinity Christian College and then Elmhurst College. Susan is in her 45th year of nursing.
ICCP: What was your favorite subject in school?
Susan: English – I loved doing the grammar, the word definition exams, and the readings…kind of a nerd that way.
ICCP: What is your best memory from your time at IC?
Susan: I transferred to IC my junior year, which can be a little intimidating. I could not believe how kind everyone was. My classmates welcomed me in, and I am forever grateful. Some of the best times of my life were at IC. I loved the football and basketball games, the talent show, the choir performances, and the comradery. I loved going to school every day and was really sad when I graduated.
ICCP: What are some highlights from your career?
Susan: I started my career at Elmhurst Hospital (surgical), went on to Rush University (pediatrics), and then became a head nurse of a surgical floor at Oak Park Hospital. I loved my nursing career and interacting with the patients.
One of the highlights of my career was when I saved a child who had drowned in my condominium pool on my day off. I did CPR for over 26 minutes. It was so hard. I didn’t have the equipment that I was used to having at the hospital. I was relieved to know my instincts were correct and that this little guy survived without any lasting damage. I am still working as a neurosurgical nurse for my husband, who is a neurosurgeon.
ICCP: What is one other thing you would like to share with IC alumni?
Susan: I started my high school years at a public school and just didn’t feel like it was a good fit. I transferred to IC and felt so much more at ease and felt like it helped me in deciding my future goals. All of my children – three step children and three biological – all went to Catholic high schools. My youngest daughter and then my youngest son both attended the University of Notre Dame and were impressed with the principals and values they experienced while there. My children agree that there is just something about a Catholic education that keeps you grounded and teaches you the correct values.
Visit ICCatholicPrep.org/alumni for more spotlights throughout the month and our social media channels. Know an IC Hero that needs to be recognized? Email their name, position, and a photo to tortman@iccatholicprep.org.