 |
|
A Message From the Council
|
|
As alumni, we still remember the excitement of a new semester—the buzz of campus, the first day of classes and the promise of what’s ahead. Now, as students dive into their fall routines, we’re cheering them on from near and far.
The fall also kicks off with our Annual Reunion Picnic, providing a chance to reconnect and reminisce, which leads into Homecoming, where we look forward to four incredible events that celebrate the spirit of our Huskie family.
By staying connected, we’re not just celebrating our own memories—we’re helping open doors for today’s students, including a few inspiring Fanny Ruth Patterson recipients you’ll meet later in this newsletter.
Here’s to a school year full of pride, purpose and community!
|
 |
|
Check Out Our Annual Reunion Picnic in Chicago
|
|
The annual BAC Reunion Picnic will take place at noon on Sunday, Aug. 31, in Grove 14 at the Dan Ryan Woods Forest Preserve in Chicago. Bring your favorite dishes and drinks to pass. Attending the picnic is free, but we ask that you RSVP so we know who is attending.
RSVP today β¨
|
 |
|
Join the Black Alumni Council for Homecoming
|
|
This year’s Homecoming theme, “Black in the Days,” is a celebration of our shared history, culture and the unforgettable moments that shaped our time on campus. We’re turning back the clock with four events that promise to bring all the nostalgia, joy and connection you’ve been craving.
Whether you’re making your way back to campus or joining us from nearby, there’s something for everyone—and we can’t wait to welcome you home.
π Mark your calendar for these can’t-miss events:
Black Bowling Again
π
Oct. 3 | π 9:30 p.m.–1 a.m. | π Four Seasons Sycamore | π΅ $25
Black to Tailgating
π
Oct. 4 | π 11:30 a.m.–2:30 p.m. | π TBD | π΅ Free
Black in the Regency (Vendors Wanted!)
π
Oct. 4 | π 3–6 p.m. | πRegency Room, Holmes Student Center | π΅ $30
Rhythm and Brunch
π
Oct. 5 | π 11 a.m.–2 p.m. | π Center for Black Studies | π΅ $30
ποΈ Want it all? Snag our limited-time package deal!
In honor of NIU’s 118th Homecoming, we’re offering a special bundle that includes access to all four events plus exclusive swag: a “Black in the Days” t-shirt and an NIU Black Alumni license plate frame—all for just $118.
π Priority registration ends September 26. After that, each event price will increase by $10. Online registration will close on Oct. 1. After that, unregistered attendees will pay the increased price at the door —so don’t wait!
Every ticket, every moment, every memory made helps fuel the future. Proceeds from these Homecoming events support current students and help us grow the kind of alumni experiences we all value.
Register today β¨
|
|
Meet this Year’s Fanny Ruth Patterson Scholarship Recipients
|
 |
|
Rain Little
Major: Physical Education
Expected Graduation: May 2026
“Receiving this scholarship means I can create a career that I’m passionate about and putting me in a position to finish my journey to doing work in curriculum and instruction and becoming a principal.”
|
|
 |
|
Khardell Phillips
Major: Political Science with a minor in Black Studies
Expected Graduation: May 2026
“Being honored with this scholarship has reaffirmed my dedication to achieving my academic goals. It represents more than financial assistance; it symbolizes hope, encouragement, and belief in my future. I’m sincerely thankful to the NIU Black Alumni Council and committee for this recognition and for continuing to uplift the legacy of Fanny Ruth Patterson through this meaningful award.”
|
|
 |
|
Olivia Collier
Major: Business Management/ Social Responsibility & Entrepreneurship
Expected Graduation: Dec. 2026
“I am truly honored to receive the Fanny Ruth Patterson Scholarship. As a student who strives to lead with purpose and resilience, this award means so much to me. Fanny Ruth Patterson’s legacy of breaking barriers continues to inspire my journey, and I’m committed to paying it forward through service, leadership, and excellence.”
|
|
 |
|
 |
| Shannice Berry, ’10, M.S.Ed. ’12: Higher Education, Higher Purpose |
|
Incoming Huskie Highlight: Aaron Williams, Earns $8M in Scholarships, Chooses NIU |
The potential to impact and influence keeps Shannice Berry involved as an NIU alumni volunteer, while attending events allows her to connect with others who share her love for NIU.
Read more β¨ |
|
Aaron Williams graduated from Bogan High School in Chicago, Illinois, with acceptance letters to dozens and dozens of colleges and millions of dollars in scholarships.
Read more β¨ |
|
Upcoming Alumni Association Events
AUGUST
10 - NIU Day With the Chicago White Sox (Chicago, IL)
16 - Chicago Fire F.C. Soccer and Tailgate (Bridgeview, IL)
24 - SoCal Brunch (San Diego, CA)
24 - Sunday Night at Klehm Garden with the Rockford Area Alumni Network (Rockford, IL)
25 - L.A. Dodgers Game and Pregame with Ned Colletti ’76 (Los Angeles, CA)
SEPTEMBER
4 - Huskie Hour: Maryland (Hyattsville, MD)
5 - NIU Football at Maryland Pregame Reception (College Park, MD)
24 - NIU Night With the Chicago Cubs Pregame Reception (Chicago, IL)
OCTOBER
3-4 - Golden Huskies Reunion and Homecoming Events (DeKalb, IL)
3 - Huskie Hour with DeKalb County Bold Spirits (DeKalb, IL)
4 - Brunch with Mission and Victor E. (DeKalb, IL)
11 - Get Wired With The Huskies (Rockford, IL)
|
Find out more about our historic campaign and how you can take action in support of NIU.
|
NIU Black Alumni Council