World Languages and Cultures
Contact Us
World Languages and Cultures
Watson Hall 111
815-753-1501
askfl@niu.edu
Upcoming Events
Studying another language opens doors. It leads to exciting career opportunities and a better understanding of other people and cultures. Our undergraduate and graduate programs will prepare you for a dynamic career in the global economy, in areas like translation, business, tourism, service industries, banking and education.
Our distinguished faculty members are experts in the theory and practice of linguistics, literature and translation. In their classes, you'll have opportunities to work closely with them on research projects, or you can join one of their study abroad programs.
Explore the many languages we offer and see the worlds we can open for you. You can also view our upcoming course offerings.
2025 Department Award Winners
- Minor Language Recognition
- ASL: Jocelynn Bouma
- French: Erika Dimitriev
- Japanese: Truman Sanchez
- German: Olivia Wells
- Spanish: Andrea Velez
- Department and College Awards
- Dean's Award: Kara Regnier
- American Association of Teachers of German Award: Olivia Wells
- Outstanding Educator Licensure Award: Kara Regnier
- Dean's List
- Blake Axelsen
- Joselyn Bahena
- Emma Fowler
- Alondra Gamez
- Jonathan Leon‑Jimenez
- Alejandra Ortiz Miranda
- Andrea Porcayo (graduated)
- Kara Regnier
- Yaritza Salgado
- Brandon Salmeron
- Hannah Sheridan (graduated)
- Ytzel Veloz
- Lorelei Wesselowski
- Owen Zographos
- Graduate and Capstone Honors
- Outstanding Graduate Student Award: Marina Klauke
- Outstanding Internship and Capstone Project Award: Alondra Gamez
In the News
The Department of World Languages and Cultures is pleased to announce that Kathy Kuschman has been named a recipient of the 2026 Excellence in Undergraduate Instruction Award.
Presented by the Committee for the Improvement of the Undergraduate Academic Experience, this award recognizes faculty who demonstrate exceptional commitment to undergraduate teaching and learning. Kathy is being honored for sustained excellence in instruction, dedication to student success and meaningful contributions to the undergraduate academic experience. As part of the award, Kathy will receive a one-time stipend of $500 and will be recognized at a university reception on Thursday, April 16, 2026, where a commemorative plaque will be presented.
Please join us in congratulating Kathy on this outstanding achievement.
