Campus Beautification

NIU’s campus is home to a rich collection of iconic and historic landmarks that reflect the spirit, creativity, and pride of the Huskie community. From the beloved “Freshman of 1903 Kissing Bench” and the bold “Huskie Pride” NIU Letters in Martin Luther King Mall, to Alexander Calder’s striking sculpture “Le Baron”, nearly 50 major works of public art are woven throughout our campus landscape. Together, these landmarks transform everyday spaces into places of reflection, inspiration, and connection. They embody NIU’s mission of “transforming the world through artistry.”

Every dollar donated to the Campus Beautification Fund helps preserve this vibrant legacy. Your support ensures that the culture, history, and artistic heritage of NIU will continue to inspire generations of Huskies to come by maintaining and restoring the landmarks that define our campus.

Thanks to the generosity of donors last year, we were able to complete a light restoration of Alexander Calder’s “Le Baron” (located on the Quad just south of Lowden Hall) and send “Ventis Ingenium” by Evan Lewis (Engineering Building – East Side) back to the artist for restoration. This year, we hope to continue this important work by addressing additional sculptures in need of care, including “Pyramus and Thisbe Rising Over Snowy Peaks” by Terrence Karpowicz (East side of Stevens).

While every dollar matters, as a special thank-you, we are excited to bring back our popular Sculpture Walking Tour, offered exclusively to donors who contribute $250 or more to the Huskie United – Campus Beautification Fund, along with a guest. This lively and engaging tour will guide participants through a curated selection of campus sculptures, sharing the fascinating stories behind the artworks and the artists who created them as we stroll through NIU’s beautiful grounds.

Together, we can ensure that the art and landmarks that define NIU continue to inspire, educate, and welcome Huskies for generations to come.