The Class of 2008 was challenged to preserve the traditions of The Chicago School’s early years through their work with underserved populations at the June 13 Commencement Exercises. Offering the remarks was this year’s Distinguished Alumnus, Dr. John Garlick (Psy.D. ’89), who represents the first decade of graduates from the school.

“We need more mental health courts and stronger community programs to meet the needs of the seriously mentally ill,” Dr. Garlick told the crowd of 3,000, who gathered at the Civic Opera House. “Most of all, we need you, the new graduates of The Chicago School, to nurture and preserve the school’s early traditions by supporting and working in arenas that treat the underserved mentally ill in our society.”

A clinical psychologist who has spent more than three decades delivering mental health services in Illinois correctional facilities, Dr. Garlick was chosen by the Alumni Council to receive the 2008 Alumnus of the Year Award. Council President Elizabeth “Scottie” presented the plaque and recognized his 34 years of service working with adolescent sexual and substance abuse offenders. Dr. Garlick is currently Director of Mental Health at the Pontiac Correctional Center and a strong supporter of increasing the access that incarcerated individuals have to psychological services.

In addition to his years with the Illinois Department of Corrections, Dr. Garlick has worked with the Kane County Diagnostic Center and MHM Services Inc. He is the 18th Chicago School graduate to receive the Distinguished Alumnus of the Year Award. His name will be added to a plaque that hangs outside the Student Lounge at Chicago’s 325 N. Wells Street building.