The NIU Presidential Commissions play a vital role in shaping a campus where everyone feels seen, supported and valued. Serving as advisory groups to the president, the commissions bring people together through collaboration and research to offer thoughtful recommendations that strengthen inclusion and expand opportunities for all members of the Huskie community to thrive.
Each year, the commissions shine a spotlight on faculty, staff, students and community members whose efforts help make NIU a more welcoming and vibrant place to live, learn and work. Nominations for these honors are typically announced early in the spring semester, inviting the community to recognize those who are making a meaningful difference.
On April 30, this year’s Presidential Commission Award winners were celebrated during a special reception and ceremony at Altgeld Auditorium from 2 to 4 p.m.
Presidential Commission on Persons with Disabilities
The Presidential Commission on Persons with Disabilities (PCPD) serves as a university-wide advocate promoting awareness, educating the university community and assisting individuals on disability-related issues. The PCPD fosters a community that upholds dignity, respect, and equal access, ensuring all individuals are recognized as valued members of NIU’s living, learning and working environment. This year, the PCPD selected award winners in these three categories: Exemplary Advocate Award for Faculty/Staff, Exemplary Advocate Award for Community Partner and Gregory Long, Ph.D. Award for Excellence in Service and Leadership.
The Exemplary Advocate Award is presented to an NIU faculty or staff member with an
outstanding record of service and leadership to persons with disabilities and the NIU community. Nominees have committed their time, energy and resources as a role model in going above and beyond advocating for disability awareness as well as creating opportunities for advancement for persons with disabilities. The 2026 award winners are Diedre Dobbels, clinical assistant professor of speech-language pathology, and Lindsey 
Larsen, instructor in the School of Interdisciplinary Health Professions.
Presidential Commission on Well-being
The Presidential Commission on Well-being enhances campus wellness by providing resources, advising the president on well-being issues, and promoting a culture of holistic wellness at NIU.
The Well-being in Action Award honors an NIU employee who has made outstanding contributions to the well-being of our campus community. Recipients demonstrate leadership, dedication, and service that help create a positive, supportive culture at NIU. The award highlights and celebrates impactful efforts that enhance well-being and might otherwise go unrecognized. The inaugural Well-being in Action Award winner is Nancy Prange, clinical assistant professor of nutrition and founder of Huskie Harvest.
