Holmes Student Center

Built in a series of stages in the 1960's, the Holmes Center is named for Leslie A. Holmes who served Northern as President from 1949 to 1967 and guided the institution from a Normal teaching school to a full University. The structure houses educational and recreational facilities and a full service hotel for the utilization of students, faculty, and visitors to the University. Facilities inside the building include a recreation den with a full service bowling alley, and three dining areas -- The Center Cafe, the Blackhawk Cafeteria, and the Pheasant Room. The Skyroom meeting room, on top of the Center Towerbuilding, offers a spectacular view of DeKalb county. The Duke Ellington Ballroom bears the name of the jazz and big band legend for his contributions to American art, music, and culture. Ellington played his last public concert in this room on March 20, 1974. The Carl Sandburg Auditorium bears the name of the famous poet who received the "Great American Award" from NIU Alumni in 1967 for "his contribution to literature and historical scholarship."