In fall 2022, Professor Ursula Sullivan was awarded the prestigious Crocker Professorship at Northern Illinois University’s College of Business (COB). The Crocker Professorship, made possible through the generous support of Cindy and Doug Crocker, signifies an important step forward in recognizing and fostering academic excellence.
When asked about her initial reaction to the news, Sullivan’s excitement was palpable. “I was very excited and a little surprised,” she admits. “But, in the end, I was very grateful as it’s a huge honor to be recognized with the Crocker Professorship.” Sullivan’s enthusiasm for her new role as the Crocker Professor is matched by her dedication to making a real impact on the lives of students.
Her vision for the future is clear: to mentor and empower the young women of the Women in Business Professions (WiBP) student organization.
“The primary way I feel I can make a difference is in mentoring the young women involved in the WiBP,” she explains. Sullivan’s passion for guiding these exceptional students is evident, as she aims to nurture their potential and drive positive change.
The Crocker Professorship, established through the support of Cindy and Doug Crocker, resonates deeply with Sullivan. Reflecting on a recent meeting with Cindy Crocker, Sullivan expresses her admiration: “Knowing how much both she and her husband, Doug, have done for the College and university is quite humbling, and I can only hope to make a difference in the lives of others, as they have done.”
Sullivan’s plans for the future are ambitious yet heartening. In addition to her work with WiBP students, she envisions collaborating with Cindy Crocker on organizing a Women Empowerment conference for students. This event would continue the tradition of inspiring and empowering the next generation of women leaders.
Cindy Crocker’s impact on the College of Business is undeniable. At NIU, the Crocker Endowed Scholarship in Business supports the next generation of business leaders through a generous endowment. In addition, Crocker has been a caring and inspiring mentor to young women majoring in business. Her annual Crocker Program for Emerging Business Leaders gives students the opportunity to network with business leaders.
“I am most proud of the accomplishments of many of the Crocker Scholars,” Crocker shares. “These scholars have thrived in their careers, demonstrating the lasting impact of supportive mentorship.”
With a shared commitment to giving back, Ursula Sullivan and Cindy Crocker exemplify the transformative potential of education. As Cindy Crocker’s favorite quote by Maya Angelou states, “When you learn, teach; When you get, give.” Both women are committed to passing on their knowledge and experiences to shape the next generation of leaders.
Ursula Sullivan’s journey into the Crocker Professorship reflects the ongoing legacy of support and mentorship at NIU’s College of Business. Through this story, we celebrate the generosity of the Crocker family, acknowledge Ursula’s dedication to her students, and emphasize the power of education to touch lives and shape futures.
