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Sally Stevens Conference Suite
Sally Stevens was born in DeKalb, raised in Sycamore, and worked at the Sycamore School District as a high school secretary and treasurer for the Board of Education. She started working at NIU in 1964 as a secretary in the President’s Office and after 32 years in that capacity, serving six NIU presidents, Sally retired and started another career of volunteerism in the community. She now serves on the Boards of Directors for the Kishwaukee Symphony Orchestra, the Kishwaukee Family YMCA, the Sycamore Women’s Club, and the NIU University Women’s Club, and several committees at Kishwaukee Community Hospital. She is an active member of the Federated Church in Sycamore, and serves as editor of the bi-monthly resident campus newsletter at the Oak Crest Retirement Center in DeKalb.
What was your motivation for naming this space in the Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center?
Having planned events and parties for the Office of the President for 32 years, I realized that such a venue was needed then, and will be in the future, and I wanted to be a part of making it possible.
What does it mean to you to be involved in a project of such importance for the university?
Knowing the need for a facility such as this center, I wanted to be a part of it. Being involved at the group level also gives me the pleasure of seeing the building at every stage of development and feeling that I am making NIU a better place for students, faculty, and guests.
What is your personal philanthropic philosophy?
I have always had a real commitment and love for Northern Illinois University, and this gift brings me great pleasure to assist in bringing this new Barsema Alumni and Visitors Center to fruition.
My total gift will also benefit the new addition to the Huskie Stadium, as well as several important areas in the College of Visual and Performing Arts at NIU.
I always knew that someday I would leave a legacy to NIU; I just decided that it would be more exciting to make that "someday" now. This way I can enjoy seeing the good that can happen with a little help from a friend. Since this gift was made, I have also put into place a plan to leave an endowment for the DeKalb County community – some of which might further assist Northern Illinois University.
What does NIU mean to you?
I loved my position at NIU in the President’s Office; I looked forward to going to work every day because every day was different. The people who worked at NIU were my good friends. I was proud of the growth and development of the university; proud of the academic accomplishments of the faculty and students; supported the performing arts – music, theater, and art – and the athletic teams – particularly football and men’s and women’s basketball. Having given 32 years of my working career to NIU, its blood flows through my veins.
Is there anything that you’d like to say to those who will enjoy the center?
Enjoy this "showcase" building. Treat it with respect, so that it will continue to be a pleasure for students, parents, friends and guests. Realize just what NIU is offering to each of you, and make the most of the talents of all the faculty and staff who assist you along the way. Remember the good times you had at NIU and come back often to see its progress. Support NIU always, to keep it strong and vibrant. It is your academic home – always be proud of it!
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Barsema Alumni and
Visitors Center
231 N. Annie Glidden Rd.
DeKalb, IL 60115
815.753.1534
815.753.0278 (fax)
Located on the campus of
Northern Illinois University |
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