Staying Connected with NIU

Northern Illinois University
Image: myniu.com

Tim Salvesen operates as the corporate controller and a vice president of GridLiance GP, LLC, in Chicago. An alumnus of Northern Illinois University (NIU) with a BS in accounting, Tim Salvesen has given back to his alma mater in the form of donations.

Affinity groups, which connect individuals with similar backgrounds and interests, enabling them to network around their shared college experiences and passions, are an easy way for NIU alumni to stay connected after graduation. These groups include the Black Alumni Council, which is dedicated to the retention and success of black college students, and the Honors Alumni Council, which focuses on fostering a long-lasting relationship between honors students and NIU. Computer science, Greek life, and Latino heritage represent additional interests around which such groups have been developed.

Regional groups also provide a way for alumni to stay in touch. At present, there are 11 such groups across the country, and new ones can be suggested via the NIU Alumni Association website at www.myniu.com.

One Path for Alumni Involvement at NIU

Northern Illinois University
Image: myniu.com

Tim Salvesen, a licensed CPA in Illinois, is a member of the American Institute of CPAs and the Illinois CPA Society. As a graduate of Northern Illinois University, Tim Salvesen has donated extensively to his alma mater.

One way for alumni to get involved with Northern Illinois University (NIU) is through the student-alumni mentoring program. As a mentor, alumni can serve as a resource and friend to current students, helping them be successful at NIU and in their future careers. NIU students in the mentorship program are matched with alumni mentors based on career paths, interests, and availability. Mentors should initiate contact with their mentees and spend at least two hours a month supporting students as a resource and motivator.

Doug Baker, the current NIU president, believes the student-alumni mentoring program is an asset as students work to achieve success in their careers. The program is sponsored by the Alumni Association in partnership with the Division of Student Affairs & Enrollment Management and the Division of Academic Affairs.