What is NIU Nexus?

NIU Nexus serves as the connecting point (e.g. nexus) between alumni interested in volunteering with their alma mater and current volunteer opportunities that exist at NIU. 

 

Why volunteer with Northern Illinois University?

Alumni volunteers provide real value to Northern Illinois University (NIU) through a variety of volunteer roles and opportunities ranging from prospective student recruitment to providing real-world job experience and everything in between. 

 

Can I volunteer if I don't live near campus?

Don't worry, we have a variety of volunteer opportunities that are appropriate for alumni at all stages and places in their lives!


How do I volunteer?

Alumni simply create an NIU Nexus profile with the NIU Alumni Association to help us understand your volunteer interests and professional expertise. Upon completion, NIU Alumni Association staff will review your profile, then connect you with opportunities suited to your interests.

 

THANK YOU!

Our volunteer community provides invaluable support to NIU and its partners. We would not be successful without you. We sincerely appreciate your time and dedication to NIU.

Help us recognize our alumni volunteers! 

Faculty, staff, and students who utilize alumni volunteers are eligible for an NIU Nexus alumni volunteer appreciation pack. In order to apply, please complete this form. 

 

Volunteer Categories

Share your success story with prospective NIU students through alumni-centered recruitment opportunities ranging from the simple act of referring a Huskie to NIU to hosting a sendoff in your area for new freshman leaving for NIU, and much more.
Join one of our alumni affinity groups! Affinity groups bring together alumni with similar backgrounds and interests. Each group offers a unique opportunity for its members to network and promote their own special interests.
Leadership positions exist at a variety of levels on campus, though most require a formal election. Involvement in other NIU Nexus activities will help you plug-in to leadership opportunities. Indicate your interest in a leadership opportunity when you complete your volunteer profile and alert staff of your interest.
Prepare students for success in the professional world by supporting career readiness opportunities including mock interviews and hosting interns at your place of work. 
Share your real-world experience and professional expertise with faculty, staff, or students. Opportunities are limited, so please indicate your interest in being connected so that our staff is aware when openings arise.
 
Support important functions at mission-critical events. Opportunities include being a research symposium judge or performing service in your community on our annual day of service, NIU Cares Day. 
Champion NIU’s cause by sharing your Huskie Pride and NIU success stories both in person and online through our Social Media Ambassador program or networking within your community.
Keep your alma mater relevant in important political conversations through legislative advocacy with your state representatives.
Help NIU connect with other alumni. NIU Nexus Recruiters are provided business card style recruitment cards to share with alumni they meet all over the world.
Let us know if you are currently or have volunteered with NIU by e-mailing alums@niu.edu.


Questions?

If you have any questions or comments about NIU Nexus or a current volunteer opportunity, please contact Liz McKee, director of alumni volunteer engagement, via e-mail at Lmckee1@niu.edu or phone at (815) 753-7400.