Chapter 3: Growth in Challenging Times - NIU 125 Key Moments

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Chapter 3: Growth in Challenging Times

1936 – 1952

A robust campus culture with growing school spirit and alumni loyalty meets the tragedy of World War II in Northern’s fourth and fifth decades. A new president and soaring post-war enrollment brings new challenges as NISTC moves towards full university status.

Alumni Association is incorporated (1936)

World War II leaves its mark on NISTC (1939 – 1945)

Northern’s athletic teams are formally named the Huskies (1940)

First official Greek organizations installed (1944)

Leslie A. Holmes becomes fifth president (1949)

The NISTC Foundation is incorporated (1949)

The first master’s degree is authorized (Jan. 22, 1951)

Gilbert Hall, first men’s dormitory, opens in 1951

Lorado Taft Field Campus is established (1951)

Founding of the Graduate School (1952)