Northern Illinois University (NIU) has named their 13^th president: College of Veterinary Medicine alumna Lisa Freeman ’81, M.S. ’86, D.V.M. ’86. Freeman will be the university’s first female president.

“It is my professional and personal honor to lead NIU forward,” said Freeman. “NIU is home to world-class faculty, dedicated employees and a diverse and proud student body, with an incredibly strong support network of alumni and donors. I look forward to collaborating with the Huskie community to strengthen the transformative educational experience NIU provides regionally, nationally and globally.”

The NIU Board of Trustees acknowledged Freeman’s strong leadership, energy, transparency and performance during her time as acting president, specifically praising her efforts not only to stabilize the university during a leadership transition, but also for making significant progress in developing a vision and plan to move the university forward in areas such as enrollment, fiscal sustainability and process improvement.

 Prior to becoming acting president in July, Freeman held the position of executive vice president and provost, in which she provided administrative oversight and programmatic direction to academic affairs, human resources services and student affairs. 

“I welcome the opportunity to be a tireless advocate for our university and for building upon our current momentum as we begin to develop a comprehensive strategic plan,” said Freeman.

Read NIU’s full announcement at their website.