Lidia B. Vitello

Lidia B. Vitello has been an adjunct associate professor or visiting professor at NIU for 29 years. At the time she came to NIU in 1970, the university, like many others, resisted appointing spouses, especially in the same department. Nevertheless, Lidia has conducted a full-fledged career as a researcher and also fulfilled many other important roles in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry. She has taught classes, conducted laboratory courses, served on thesis and dissertation committees and worked closely with student organizations. She has published major research papers and been the principal investigator or co-PI on a number of major grants. Lidia also is a role model to many women who have pursued careers in the sciences. She has had a full and distinguished faculty career, without the recognition of title and rank.