Justice Arthur

What year did you start working at NIU?
2022 

Where is your hometown? and where do you live now?
I am from Ghana and live in DeKalb.

In what department do you work?
Division of University Advancement, Gift Planning

Where did you attend school? What degree(s) did you earn?
I attended Northern Illinois University and graduated with a Master of Public Administration degree in May 2024.

If you attended college, were you a first-generation student? If so, what advice would you offer to current first generation students?
As a first-generation college student who has inspired others in my community, I understand the unique challenges and opportunities you face. First and foremost, I would advise you to stay focused on your education and prioritize your studies. The skills you develop, such as communication and building interpersonal relationships, are crucial not only for academic success but also for your future career. Engaging actively in class, participating in group projects and seeking opportunities to enhance these skills will benefit you greatly. Additionally, invest in building your social capital by networking with peers, professors and professionals. Forming meaningful connections can provide valuable support, open doors and create opportunities. Don’t hesitate to take advantage of campus resources designed specifically for first-generation students, such as academic advising, counseling services and tutoring. These resources are there to help you navigate challenges and make the most of your college experience. Embrace your unique journey as a source of strength and inspiration and remember to balance your academic responsibilities with self-care to avoid burnout. Stay resilient in the face of obstacles; your perseverance will be a powerful tool. Lastly, recognize that your path is not just a personal achievement but also a beacon for others in your community. Keep pushing forward, and let your journey continue to inspire and uplift those around you.

Describe your typical day—what do you do while at work?
I work with an outstanding team dedicated to raising funds that support and advance the university’s mission. My typical day at work starts early, usually around 7 a.m. I begin by reviewing my calendar to familiarize myself with the day’s schedule and any meetings or deadlines that are on the agenda. I then go through and respond to the email I received the previous evening, ensuring that any urgent matters are addressed promptly. Throughout the day, I am involved in a variety of meetings aimed at refining our fundraising approaches, as well as check-ins with College of Health and Human Sciences stakeholders to align our efforts with broader institutional goals. I also participate in discussions with potential donors and partners to cultivate relationships and secure philanthropic gifts, as well as analyze data and information to track the success of our initiatives and adjust tactics as needed to meet our targets.

What do you like about working at NIU?
There is fulfillment in being a Huskie and working for the same school that has contributed greatly to my skillset. Aside from that, I am happy to work with a team that is focused on my personal development.

What advice would you give to students currently attending NIU?
Begin to plan your future while a student. There are plenty of opportunities in this country, but you need to know what you want so you can be guided on who to get close to and where you are going.

What is important for students to know about the office/department that you work in? What student services does your office provide?
The Division of University Advancement is the fundraising arm of NIU. We work hard to ensure that the university has the funds it requires to make school affordable and accessible. Almost all the scholarships, assistantships and grants are possible due to the work we do and our collaboration with alumni, university departments and volunteers.

In what ways do you see your colleagues help student success?
My colleagues put in a lot of effort to ensure that the university is able to raise funds to support programs, faculty, staff and students.

What is your favorite memory of NIU?
My favorite memory is when I transitioned from a graduate staff assistant to a full-time assistant director of advancement. I was very happy knowing that I am now part of the team advancing the mission of NIU.

What accomplishment(s) are you most proud of?
I am proud of my role in developing and growing a donor naming opportunities program that has the potential to contribute a substantial number of philanthropic gifts to NIU.

What fulfills you personally and professionally?
I find fulfilment in the skills I have acquired and the growth opportunities I envision.

Which of NIU’s core values align with your own?
Service and stewardship and curiosity and creativity align with my personal goals. I believe in working for the interest of the masses. I also believe in being creative and optimistic.

Have you contributed to any NIU Foundation fundraising campaigns such as the Day of Giving or Huskies United? If yes, why did you decided to support NIU?
I volunteered during the Huskies United fundraising campaign, where I texted about 1,000 alumni to encourage them to donate to the university. I volunteered because I am focused on contributing to making higher education affordable and accessible.

What did you want to be when you were growing up? Are you currently doing it? If not, what changed your path?
I wanted to be a lot of different things at different times. Fundraising was not part of my career prospects until my bachelor’s degree education, when I was exposed to the career and the impact it has on society.

Are you participating in or have you participated in any NIU shared governance or professional development groups? If so, how has your participation enhanced your experience as an employee?
I am a member of the NIU Innovation Lab, which has helped me think about the future and give effective elevator pitches.

Are you a member of or hold a position within a professional or community organization? If so, what organization? What is the purpose of that organization and how does being part of this organization benefit you in your role at NIU?
I am a member of various organizations, including the Association for Research on Nonprofit Organizations and Voluntary Action (ARNOVA), which is focused on strengthening the field of nonprofit and philanthropic research. I am also a member of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), which is a global nonprofit association focused on educational advancement, including alumni relations and fundraising. Being a member of these associations helps me stay up to date with research and best practices in university advancement and fundraising.

What do you do to relax or recharge?
I listen to music or watch a movie.

Do you have any hobbies or interesting personal pursuits you're involved with in your spare time?
I am a mentor with iMentor Chicago, a program that connects high school students with professionals in Illinois for mentorship purposes.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your NIU Huskie story?
NIU is a place of opportunities. It has the best faculty and staff who relate very well with students. The university offered me the opportunity to develop my skills and grow my career.