Graduates Pay It Forward Through Mentorship and Support
They once walked these halls with backpacks and big dreams; now they return with experience, wisdom and a generous spirit. Our alumni are more than success stories — they’re mentors, advocates and partners in shaping the journeys of today’s students. In the pages ahead, you’ll meet graduates who prove that giving back isn’t just an act of gratitude — it’s a powerful way to keep the circle of learning and opportunity alive.
Pierre Sanders-Jackson
IT Support Specialist, SonLife Broadcasting Network
B.S. in Operations and Information Management, ’19
Q: What has stuck with you from your time
at the NIU College of Business?
A: The NIU College of Business has shaped my professional career in many different ways. I don’t think I would be where I am without the college. Every class, professor and faculty advisor gave me a greater perspective of the business world that I did not have before attending NIU. Through group projects and hands-on assignments, applying the knowledge became easier along the way, which gave me a huge confidence boost that I could achieve big goals.
A lot of personal conversations with my professors and faculty have helped me navigate trials and hard times to this day, whether career or personal. Many times, I got to speak with business professionals at events, in the classroom and even while walking through the halls. You don’t see that everywhere, and that’s what sets the NIU College of Business apart: An atmosphere to learn every day and be pushed to the next level.
Q: In what ways have you given back to the college since you graduated?
A: I’ve had three opportunities since graduating to pour my knowledge and expertise into helping students:
• The first was a board meeting with fellow graduates and college administrators to provide insight into the skills and methodologies we are using/ see on the rise in our respective fi elds, along with brainstorming how the college can incorporate this into different events and classwork.
• The second was visiting two classes for my former professor, Ying Wang, to give insight into my role at the time as business intelligence developer for Uline Shipping Supplies.
• My third opportunity was to be a part of an OM&IS panel at the College of Business with other friends with whom I graduated. These opportunities allowed me to delve into the details one-on-one with students, helping them get a step ahead of the competition and better prepare for their post- graduate endeavors.
Q: Why do you make time to give back to the NIU College of Business?
A: Anyone who knows me knows how much I love people. Looking back and reminiscing over the wonderful memories, experiences and relationships the NIU College of Business has given me, I am filled with gratitude and honor. So many gave their time and effort that I may achieve success, so it’s my duty to be a part of the continued culture being grown here. I learned early in my life that nothing is owed to me, so to see how much they willingly gave to me, I want to do the same in any way that I can.
Rachel Losser
Founder and Managing Partner,
Losser Consulting Solutions
B.S. in marketing, ’17
Executive MBA, ’24
Q: Why does the NIU College of Business mean so much to you?
A: I was able to find my career path and my passion in the NIU College of Business. I started at NIU as a double major in theater and business, fully thinking theater and acting were going to be my life moving forward. Much to my surprise, I ended up loving the business classes, felt super-supported by all the staff and pretty quickly chose to pivot fully into business. I ended up being heavily involved in the leadership of student organizations and really found my groove in the college. My business degree also set my career in motion and has opened so many doors for me.
Q: In what ways have you given back to the college since you graduated?
A: I love staying in touch with the NIU Huskie family and give back as much as I can. Throughout my career, I’ve tried to donate and attend networking events. Since starting my project management consulting business last year, I’ve been able to offer several internships to students, join the Management Department Advisory Board, set up times to meet with students, assist with their mock interviews and book times to speak in classrooms in the fall.
Q: Why do you make time to give back to the college?
A: I was very fortunate to have a lot of support through scholarship and programming when I was earning my undergraduate degree. Now more than ever, I feel a pull and responsibility to step up, help out and pass it forward.
Q: What was the most meaningful experience volunteering or giving back so far?
A: By far, the most rewarding experiences for me are the ones where I get to interact with and mentor students. I remember being so excited to interact with executives and business owners as a student. It feels like such a full-circle moment to now be the entrepreneur myself and be able to provide a little guidance to the group of students about to enter the workforce. It also helps that all the students I talk to are so wonderful.
Q: Are there any meaningful anecdotes you could share about your giving back and how you made an impact on students?
A: My favorite story is that I came to the Department of Management for mock interviews. One of the students I interviewed knocked the interview out of the park with such ease. I basically tried to hire them for the summer on the spot, but they already had an interview lined up. We stayed in touch all summer, and I’ll be bringing them on as an intern in the fall.
Q: Why would you suggest that other alumni do the same?
A: NIU students are so capable and impressive. I encourage alumni, business leaders and entrepreneurs to consider engaging with students. It’s a wonderful experience for all involved. As a business leader, the students do great work and deliver excellent value. For the students, the real-world experience can be life-changing, even as just a stepping stone to future jobs and opportunities.
Isaac Palma
National Sales Manager, Sherwin-Williams
B.A. in political science
Q: You’re not a business graduate, but why does the NIU College of Business mean so much to you?
A: Although I didn’t graduate from the College of Business, it has played a major role in my professional journey. Over the past 12 years in business, I’ve consistently recruited exceptional talent from NIU’s College of Business — students who arrive ready to contribute from Day 1. I’ve also developed rewarding relationships with faculty whose commitment to their students is unmatched. Their passion, along with the college’s reputation for preparing students for real-world success, has earned my deep respect and connection.
Q: In what ways have you given back to the college since you graduated?
A: I stay actively involved by volunteering in classroom role-plays with sales students, speaking at events hosted by business fraternities like Pi Sigma Epsilon and mentoring aspiring professionals. It’s important to me to invest time and share insights with students who are where I once was. If I can help them launch confidently into their careers, that’s the real win.
Q: Why do you make time to give back to the NIU College of Business?
A: I see my younger self in so many of these students. NIU has a rich tradition of welcoming people from diverse backgrounds, and that inclusive spirit shaped my own experience. When I was a student, alumni generously shared their stories and helped me transition into the workforce. Their guidance was instrumental in placing me with a company that valued me — not just my résumé. Giving back now is my way of paying it forward.
Q: What has been your most meaningful experience volunteering or giving back so far?
A: One of the most fulfilling moments was helping students transition from classroom interactions to real roles within the company I work at. Some of those students I met during NIU events later joined our team, and I was able to be a sounding board for them as they navigated customer challenges and career growth. Watching them rise — get promoted and make their own impact — has been incredibly rewarding.
Q: Can you share an anecdote about how you’ve made an impact on students or the college?
A: During a classroom role-play in a marketing course, one student wanted to conduct their sales pitch in Spanish to challenge themselves. When they got into the room, nerves took over and they asked to switch to English. I encouraged them to pause, take a breath and lean into the moment. They stuck with Spanish, completed the pitch and landed the sale. Afterward, they thanked me for helping them push through the anxiety. That moment was a powerful reminder of the growth that happens outside our comfort zones.
Q: Why would you suggest other alumni do the same?
A: Giving back is one of the most impactful ways to honor the university that helped shape who you are. You get to help future graduates avoid some of the stumbles you may have faced and set them up for success right out of the gate. It’s meaningful, it’s energizing and it’s a way to stay connected to something bigger than yourself.
Corey Brown
Platform Training Consultant, Envestnet Inc.
B.S. in business administration, ’20
Q: How have you given back to Huskie business students since earning your degree?
A: Since graduation in 2020, I’ve given back to the College of Business in several ways. I’ve joined alumni panels to speak to my former academic advisors’ classes, helped with student mock interviews each semester and was featured in NIU’s postcard series sent to newly admitted students who are considering NIU‘s College of Business.
Q: How have you made a difference when giving back?
A: I enjoy all volunteering experiences I participate in. However, the mock interviews are most meaningful to me. Interviewing is a very important skill, and I enjoy sharing any tips and tricks to help the students as they begin their careers post-graduation. My favorite part of this experience is sitting and talking to the students. As a recent graduate, I understand students’ perspective on handling college academics and starting their careers.
Last spring, I participated in mock interviews. As I walked into the Department of Management lobby, I encountered a student who looked very familiar. The student was someone I tutored in the Writer’s Workshop on campus. He wrote a very personal narrative essay that I never forgot, and I mentioned this to the student. After our mock interview, I offered my LinkedIn information. When I returned home, I received a thank-you email. The student stated he was very encouraged that I remembered him from six years ago and truly grateful for the recognition. This shows that giving back can create a lasting impact on both students when they return to the classroom and alumni who return to their careers.
Kara Otis
Human Resources Generalist, Sherwin-Williams
B.S. in marketing, ’15
Q: How did the NIU College of Business impact your journey?
A: My time at NIU’s College of Business was instrumental in shaping my professional development
and building my confidence in the workplace. Through the professional sales program, I discovered that professional communication and a strong work ethic are skills that can be learned and further developed. I use these skills every day in my career, and many of the opportunities I’ve received stem directly from what I gained during my time at NIU.
Q: In what ways have you given back to the college since you graduated?
A: I truly enjoy returning to NIU to support and mentor current students. I regularly participate in career events, sales program activities, company meet-and- greets and women-in-business events. I’m always open to new opportunities to stay involved and give back in meaningful ways.
Q: How has volunteering impacted you?
A: One of the most meaningful ways I’ve given back is through the Crocker Program for Emerging Business Leaders. As a student, attending this event was a turning point — it introduced me to inspiring female leaders and empowered me to take ownership of my career goals. Now, returning as an alumna, it’s incredibly rewarding to connect with students, share my journey and help them feel just as inspired and supported.
Over the years, I’ve built meaningful connections with many students. During 2018–2019, while working as a recruiter, I frequently visited the college and had the chance to mentor and guide students. Several of them now work at my company and are making a significant impact. It’s always fulfilling to reflect on those early conversations and see how far they’ve come.
Q: How can other alumni give back?
There are countless ways alumni can give back, and even small eff orts can make a big difference. For
me, supporting fellow Huskies as they prepare for graduation and enter the workforce has been incredibly rewarding. Students are always so appreciative and it’s fulfilling to know that, as alumni, we can play a meaningful role in their growth and success.
Alumni and friends of NIU are always welcome to give their time back to our students. If you’re interested in helping the college, please contact busdean@niu.edu.
