Hundreds of students gathered for Northern Illinois University's undergraduate commencement ceremony Sunday at the Convocation Center. Friends, family, and relatives filled the stands for the graduation activities.
NIU President Doug Baker acknowledged what he calls "notable achievements" of several students, including Student Marshall Jessica Christofersen; she served in the United States Army, reported for The Northern Star, studied in England, and is working for commercial-pilot certification.
Another student, Octavia Erkins, was sworn in as a second lieutenant in the U.S. Army during the ceremony.
The NIU Steel Band performed in the commencement ceremonies for the fourth consecutive year.