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A Message From the Golden Huskie Alumni Network
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Congratulations to NIU’s Class of 1976, who completed their collegiate journey nearly 50 years ago! In 2026, you will become members of the Golden Huskie Alumni Network, which includes graduates from 50 years ago or more.
The GHAN evolved from an annual Homecoming reunion into a dynamic lineup of year-round programming, including social events, virtual lectures, and meaningful opportunities to support volunteer and fundraising initiatives.
We look forward to connecting with you soon at an upcoming GHAN event!
Mark Lamb ’73
President, Golden Huskie Alumni Network
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Fall Fun and Fond Memories:
Golden Huskies at Homecoming
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Golden Huskies had a fantastic time at NIU's 118th Homecoming last month with perfect fall weather setting the stage for a weekend full of connection and nostalgia. Friday featured a thought-provoking talk about Artificial Intelligence by Professor David Gunkel, a campus tour with stops at the remodeled student center and Stevenson Hall, and lunch at Neptune Hall. The afternoon continued with libations at Jonamac Orchard before the Golden Huskie Reception, welcoming the Class of 1975, which featured 'name that tune' and a surprise delivery from Pizza Villa.
Homecoming Saturday was just as fun as Golden Huskies enjoyed brunch at Altgeld Hall, followed by an afternoon of tailgating at the GH tent at Mission's Grove before the football game. Despite the final score, the weekend was a joyful celebration. Check out photos from the weekend and more. See you next year!
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Join the Challenge:
$50K for Student Success
The Golden Huskie Alumni Network has launched its inaugural fundraising initiative with a goal of raising $50,000 for the Golden Huskie Promise Expendable Fund—an effort that is 100% student-focused. All funds raised directly support FORWARD: The Campaign for NIU, helping advance opportunities for current and future Huskies. Watch this short video for more information.
With financial support going to four critical areas of student need, your donations are making a real impact.
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• Emergency funds
• Scholarship support
• Career prep
• Outside the classroom learning
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Help us reach our goal by July 1! When the goal is met, Glenn, ’73, and Sharon Hollister, M.A. ’92, will match it with another $50,000 to create a named Golden Huskie Promise Endowed Fund.
Make your donation here. For other ways to donate or learn more about how to establish your own named Golden Huskie Endowed fund, contact Liz McKee, M.S.Ed. ’14, at Lmckee1@niu.edu.
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| Mike, M.S.Ed. ’73, and Rosemary Greene, ’69, Enjoying Retirement As Authors |
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Get Involved with the Golden Huskie Alumni Network! |
Mike, M.S.Ed. ’73, and Rosemary Greene,'69, built their own successful business management software company before retiring and not only enjoying their time as grandparents, but as self-published authors too.
Read more ⇨ |
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Interested in helping plan Homecoming activities, or have insight and time to help plan activities and engagement for Golden Huskies throughout the year? Send an email expressing your interest to volunteer@niu.edu, and a member of the GHAN will follow up with you! |
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NIU Then and Now!
Did you know that 50 years ago, the student who wore the Huskie mascot costume interviewed the candidates for the following year? There were 25 potential candidates back then, and only one could be selected. NIU's athletic teams have been known as the Huskies since 1940, chosen for its strength, dedication, endurance, and perseverance.
Today, we have two mascots: the costumed version known as Victor E. Huskie, managed by NIU Athletics, and a live Huskie dog known as Mission. The Mission Mascot Program was introduced in 2012, and as of today, we have seen three Missions proudly serve in that role.
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UPCOMING ALUMNI ASSOCIATION EVENTS
Alumni are welcome to all events and can expect their fellow Golden Huskies to have a dedicated presence at those marked with red asterisks. **
NOVEMBER
10 - Healthy Healthy Huskies: Holiday Foods for Health and Pleasure (Virtual)
12 - A Taste of Italy (Sugar Grove, IL)
DECEMBER
4 - Rockford Holiday Reception (Rockford, IL)
9 - Alumni Holiday Reception (Chicago, IL) **
JANUARY
23 - Huskies Night Out: Maker Fair (DeKalb, IL)
FEBRUARY
4 - Macular Degeneration Research at NIU (Virtual) **
MARCH
27 - Huskies Night Out: Under the Stars (DeKalb, IL)
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Find out more about our historic campaign and how you can take action in support of NIU.
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the NIU Alumni Association