Share this story!

It is no secret, Huskies are making history.

Here at NIU, we have 125 years of rich history to celebrate. From our earliest origins as teaching college to our modern-day reputation as an engine for innovation, artistry and research, Huskies have been on the forefront of their respective fields and changing the world for the better.

This issue of the Northern Now is a tribute to more than a century of history-making achievements. Within this publication, we highlight some things that made this university stronger—the history of our athletics programs, a family of six Huskie siblings, and overcoming campus tensions in the Vietnam era.

We also touch on some of the history being made here and now—generous and visionary donors, like John and Anne Landgraf, our world-renowned steel band, and the $350 million microscope that has been awarded to the university for cross-college collaboration.

The year behind us was a different one—one that will go in the history books, certainly—but it uplifted the Huskie community’s ability to come together and overcome challenges. From our students and instructors, to our staff and community friends, we have shown that we are resilient. We never quit, and we are looking to the future.

Go Huskies!


Reggie Bustinza