Douglas Hall could be considered a “Golden Huskie” too!

Then: Douglas Hall, which was named after prolific Illinois statesman Stephen A. Douglas, opened in 1962 and was demolished (video above) 52 years later in 2014. In its heyday, Douglas was home to thousands of students who made lifelong memories at NIU.

Now: NIU built Patterson Hall, its newest residence hall, in 2012, designed for ‘cluster style’ living, which is different than what many of us experienced. Today, where Douglas Hall once stood, is an open field that has helped to create broader access to campus via Lucinda Avenue westbound from Annie Glidden Road to the edges of campus in either direction.

Want to see more of the updates to NIU’s campus? 2026 Homecoming would be a great time to visit this fall. Come experience what’s new on the NIU campus and relive those memories!

Golden Huskie Recognition

Several Golden Huskies listed below were recognized in 2025 during home football games for their ongoing involvement and support of NIU. In addition to the pregame recognition in the Huskies Athletic Fund tent, they were also honored and recognized on the field during a time-out. Congratulations and thanks to everyone for your support of NIU.

Glenn and Sharon Hollister
Pete and Pat Garrity
Bob and Pat Gregolunas
Joe and Lauren Locke
Jerry and Ging Smith
John and Connie Blackburn

Help Us Change Students’ Lives During Huskies United (April 1-2)

We know firsthand the impact of an NIU education and believe in paving the way for today’s students to graduate without financial barriers. When many of us attended NIU, tuition was around $400 a year; today it’s nearly $15,000, and more than half of our students are the first in their families to attend college. Many work long hours just to stay enrolled.

Join fellow Golden Huskies in removing these barriers by supporting scholarships, academic resources, career development and emergency aid through the Golden Huskie Promise Expendable Fund. Huskies United (April 1-2) is a key opportunity to help us reach our $50,000 goal — which will unlock an additional $50,000 gift from Golden Huskies Glenn, ’73, and Sharon, M.A. ’92, Hollister. Click here for more information or to donate now.