Northern Star: New Year Activities – Derby, Robotics & More

Students returning too campus at Northern Illinois University and DeKalb residents have a diverse range of events to choose from this spring, kicking off with opportunities for goal-setting, artistic expression, and even a glimpse into the world of roller derby.

Vision Boards and Robotics Highlight Spring Semester Kickoff

A mix of creative and STEM-focused events are available to students and the community this week.

Those looking to map out their aspirations for 2026 can head to the Founders Memorial Library from noon to 2 p.m.on Wednesday and Thursday to create a vision board.Academic coaches and librarians will be available to offer resources and support,and supplies and refreshments will be provided.

Did you know?-Vision boards are a popular tool for manifesting goals, combining visual imagery with affirmations to inspire action and focus.

The NIU Music Building will host a recital and masterclass with Lara Dahl, a lecturer in oboe and the woodwind area coordinator from Georgia State University, starting at 3 p.m. on Saturday. The masterclass will follow the recital at 3:45 p.m.

For those seeking a bit more adrenaline,the Barbed Wire Roller Derby team will host a meet and greet from 2 p.m. to 3:15 p.m. on Saturday at the DeKalb Public Library’s Yusunas Meeting Room. Attendees will have the chance to learn about the team’s history and training, and will receive a 50% discount on tickets to the team’s 6 p.m. game at the Kishwaukee family YMCA in Sycamore. The Barbed Wire Roller Derby team was founded in 2010 and competes in the Men’s Roller Derby Association. The team aims to promote athleticism and community involvement thru the sport of roller derby. The meet and greet is free and open to the public.

Pro tip-Roller derby bouts are fast-paced and exciting. Arriving early allows time to find good seating and experience the pre-game atmosphere.

Rounding out the week’s offerings, the NIU STEAM monthly Teen & Family STEM Café will return on Thursday from 5 p.m.to 6:30 p.m. at the DeKalb Public Library, Yusunas Meeting Room. This month’s session will feature a presentation by the NIU Robotics Club,followed by hands-on robotic activities,and pizza will be served. The STEM Café program, launched in 2018, seeks to bridge the gap between formal science education and real-world applications. The NIU robotics Club,comprised of undergraduate and graduate students,will demonstrate their latest projects and guide participants through basic robotics principles.

Reader question-what kind of robotics activities will be available at the STEM Café? Share your thoughts on how to make STEM education more engaging!

What exactly is a STEM Café? These events aim to make science, technology, engineering, and mathematics accessible and engaging for teens and families through interactive presentations and activities.