In The Spotlight
Outstanding Huskies Recognized with 2026 NIU Alumni Association Awards
We honor alumni who have achieved outstanding professional and personal successes while pursuing civic, cultural or charitable activities.
Nancy Prange and Pattie Schiele Honored With 2026 Northern Lights Award
Alumni volunteers are recognized for their generosity, initiative, reliability, joyfulness, curiosity and commitment
Crain's Names David Gomel, '94, a Notable Leader in Healthcare
Rosecrance Behavioral Health CEO is a notable leader with an unlikely beginning
Chi Chi Wonuigwe, ’04, Creating Connections, Building Traditions
A Homecoming visit inspired alumna to give back
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events Below
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Huskie Hour at Pat & Fran’s Irish Pub (Iowa)
3 days away
6:00PM - 8:00PM Fri 4 Sep 2026 Central timezoneJoin your fellow alumni and NIU football fans for a Huskie Hour at Pat & Fran's Irish Pub on Friday, Sept. 4. -
NIU Football at Iowa Pregame Reception
12:15PM - 3:15PM Sat 5 Sep 2026 Central timezone
Join us and your fellow NIU Huskies Football fans as we travel to Iowa City to watch the Huskies take on the University of Iowa Hawkeyes on Saturday, Sept. 5, at Kinnick Stadium.
Donor Stories
Donor Spotlight: Barry Franklin '81
Math alumnus and his wife have given back to NIU as he found success as an actuary
Donor Spotlight: Mary Wirth '74
Chemistry alumna plans professorship named for impactful professor Vaughn
Donor Spotlight: M. Nadine Zimmerman
Retired long-time faculty member sings praises of gift annuities to support NIU
Student Stories
Student Spotlight: Carmen Houde
Houde hopes to inspire students to develop a love of music as an educator
Student Spotlight: Jessica Hardges
Hardges aims to develop a nonprofit hydroponics and community resource center
Student Spotlight: Makayla Jackson
Poli sci major wants to be a voice for the voiceless as an attorney