Northern Illinois University
Dr. Lisa C. Freeman
Office of the President

This year’s holiday card competition theme is “joyful wishes for a peaceful season and year ahead”. NIU and the City of DeKalb have partnered to create a community of belonging. This is a community where everyone is valued, recognized, and empowered. The NIU holiday card should make us feel welcome, connected, and embraced – regardless of our differences.

President Lisa Freeman has selected student artwork to showcase the incredible talent that NIU students possess. Of the entries submitted for consideration, three were selected and the artists received scholarships for their winning designs. Their work will be featured on the official NIU president’s electronic holiday card.

Congratulations to the 2022 winners!

Holiday’s Helpful Hands

Marlen Hueramo is a freshman art education major from Rochelle, IL.

“I was inspired by the diversity of students and faculty who have made this holiday season beautiful. They're always lending a helping hand. They constantly show support, so I showcased the beauty of love and unity that's the backbone of our NIU Community,” said Hueramo.

Marlen aspires to be a art professor. "The second I stepped onto campus I found myself in awe at watching my instructors create such a welcoming and creatively diverse environment. I can only hope to become just as amazing and inspiring as they have been for me," said Hueramo.

(First place)

Diverse and Inclusive NIU

Johnson Kwame Wor is a Ph.D. art and design student from Ghana.

Wor said this design was motivated by the “fact that NIU has a high pedigree in sports and academics and also that NIU is a university that upholds diversity, equity and diversity.
These are necessary ingredients for peaceful and joyful season such as this.”

Johnson Kwame hopes to impact the next generation of designers and scholars in the field of art and design with rich knowledge and experience in artistic expression and education.

(Second place)

Our Cheery Altgeld

Abigail Nixon is a senior nursing major from Edmond, OK.

 “I chose to use one of the most iconic landmarks at NIU and combined that with all the holiday spirit, but in a minimalistic way,” stated Nixon.

After graduation, Abigail plans to become an Intensive Care Nurse, and eventually get her DNP to teach for higher education. 

(Third place)