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.
Chi Chi Wonuigwe, ’04, Creating Connections, Building Traditions
A Homecoming visit inspired alumna to give back
Shatoya Black, '13, M.S. '15, Ed.D. '20 Turns Adversity Into Purpose
Earns three degrees after losing everything; now works as entrepreneur, speaker, author
Carlos Fulcher, '90, Organizes Appalachian Trail Hike To Reconnect With Alumni
Siblings, friends, co-workers included in group adventure that lasted seven days
Upcoming Events
Upcoming Events Below
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Huskie Hangout (Phoenix, Arizona)
TOMORROW
5:00PM - 7:00PM Fri 21 Aug 2026 Mountain timezoneMeet up with local alumni on Friday, August 21, at 5 p.m. at Kitsune Brewing for an evening of conversation, camaraderie and NIU pride. -
NIU Alumni Association Travel Program, LLC 2027 Preview
5:30PM - 7:00PM Thu 27 Aug 2026 Central timezone
Join the NIU Alumni Association Travel Program, LLC for the 2027 Travel Preview Event.
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