Sponsored by:
College of Liberal Arts & Sciences
and Women's Studies Program

The NIU Conference for Young Women introduces women in their sophomore through senior years of high school to a variety of career areas, including professions where women have been historically underrepresented, and provides opportunities to interact with successful women faculty, professionals, and NIU students. The conference includes a panel discussion on career opportunities for women; presentations by faculty and professionals on topics related to women’s collegiate experiences and career options; a career interests workshop; and lunch with NIU faculty, professionals, and students.  The conference is sponsored by the NIU College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and the Women’s Studies Program. 

Schedule (tentative)

8:15-8:30 a.m.  Registration & Refreshments

8:30-9:15 a.m.  Welcome & Remarks
Diana Swanson, Director, Women's Studies
Sue Doederlein, Associate Dean, Liberal Arts & Sciences
Alexandria Springer, NIU Student, Women's Studies, Sociology & International Relations

9:15-10:00 a.m.  Session I: Career Opportunities (Choose one)
Jeanne Meyer, Police Sergeant, University Police
Monique Bernoudy, Associate Director, Intercollegiate Athletics
Lesley Rigg, Associate Professor, Biogeography

10:00-11:25 a.m. Session II: Career Interests Workshop

11:30-12:30 p.m. Session III: Career Panel
Mary Crocker, Recycling Specialist
Andrea Drott, Health Educator
Joan Quinn, Foodsystems Lab Coordinator

12:30-1:20 p.m. Lunch

1:25-1:45 p.m. Evaluation & Conclusion

“I learned that you don't necessarily need to have a career picked out when you come to college, and you should explore more classes and fields.”

"I learned a lot about how to be happy in your life – not to let anything, including gender, stop you from doing what you want to do. Also, it may take a few tries, but it is not bad to start over in order to pursue your dreams."

“Today was very interesting, ultimately I learned a lot (that) I would not have been able to learn had I not come. I really enjoyed it!”

“I learned a lot today about different fields. It was a great experience. . . Overall, I had a great time. ”