Antonio Torres, '24, Serves With Purpose and Energizes the NIU Latino Alumni Council
Adapted from original content provided by the NIU Latino Alumni Council.

Antonio Torres, '24 (Photo: Antonio Torres)

Antonio Torres, '24, is already making his mark as the Latino Alumni Council's newest secretary.

For Torres, volunteering has always been a way to give back—a value nurtured through campus service projects like food bank drives and community events. Now, as the Latino Alumni Council secretary, he hopes to bring structure and innovation to council processes while expanding professional networks for Latino alumni.

"Being part of the Latino Alumni Council means that I am part of a team that is dedicated to the mission of ensuring current and future Latino alumni and friends have a place for them to grow after they graduate," he said. "I am honored to be part of that process by offering my skills, input and time."

He emphasizes the importance of staying engaged, sharing that “there is value in staying connected to the NIU community and having a network available at your fingertips to stay motivated, learn how to innovate, and inspire.”

During his time at NIU, Torres studied political science and found his home and identity through Lambda Theta Phi Latin Fraternity, Inc., where brotherhood, service and cultural pride shaped some of his fondest memories.

Among his standout accomplishments was earning a semester-long internship with the U.S. House of Representatives, which ignited his passion for public policy and community engagement. He also participated in NIU’s Multicultural Greek Council and Research Rookies, further enriching his undergraduate experience.

Torres credits his professors for inspiring him to never stop asking questions about the world. He fondly recalls Swen Parson Hall as his favorite place on campus, describing it as NIU’s most beautiful building and a great spot to study.

Adding a unique layer to his story, Torres shares that he lived in campus housing as a child while his mother pursued her master’s degree in Spanish pathology at Brigham Young University in Utah.

His journey is deeply rooted in his Colombian and Puerto Rican heritage. Although he once felt distant from his roots, he credits his fraternity brothers for helping him embrace his cultural identity with pride.

Outside of academics, Torres has a strong passion for travel, having explored 14 countries—from hiking volcanoes in Guatemala to sailing the Greek islands. He also serves in the Illinois Army National Guard, balancing military training with academic life during his undergraduate years and now in his professional career.

Currently, Torres works in higher education as an academic affairs assistant at Aurora University, where he supports data analysis and administrative outreach. This role builds on the skills he developed at NIU, fostering growth, adaptability and collaboration.

Looking ahead, Torres began his M.B.A. studies at the University of Illinois Chicago in August 2025, determined to keep learning and contributing to his community.

With his dedication and drive, Torres is rising alongside the Latino Alumni Council—and inspiring others to do the same.

NIU alumni volunteer their time in meaningful ways. Want to brainstorm ways you can get involved? Contact Eric Glasby, '15, M.S.Ed. '18, at eglasby1@niu.edu.