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Shining in the summer – and throughout the year

July 1, 2016
Lise Schlosser

Lise Schlosser

While the summer might be a respite for some members of the community, it’s Lise Schlosser’s time to shine.

As office manager in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences External Programming, many of her behind-the-scenes efforts take center stage this time of year.

“My job provides me the opportunity to work hard, learn more and share my knowledge and interests with a wide variety of people,” Schlosser said. “I appreciate those opportunities, and really couldn’t ask for more.”

In her role, Schlosser and her colleagues imagine and execute ever-expanding and evolving learning opportunities for audiences that include teachers, students, community members, and lifelong learners. These programs offer the kind of challenges that keeps her often behind-the-scenes work varied and interesting, she said.

“We have a small office – four full-time employees – and it takes everyone’s contributions to execute the exceptional programming that we do,” Schlosser said. “None of us could do this on our own; our teamwork and relationships make it all possible.”

Whether it’s leading a travel program to Canada for the Stratford Festival, accompanying a group to a Chicago Shakespeare Theater production or contributing to the success of NIU summer camps, Schlosser delivers on all accounts. She is proud to represent the Huskies – as an alumnus and employee – and also as a current Ph.D. candidate in the Department of English.

“Both as a student and now as a staff member, I have been touched by the great group of people who work at NIU,” said Schlosser, who was one of four members of NIU’s Operating Staff selected to receive the 2016 Outstanding Service Award.

Lise Schlosser“They have encouraged, fostered and challenged me and I’ve been especially lucky to now work with many of them. It’s great to come to the office every ,day and engage with people I truly enjoy.”

Schlosser and her team have planned nine camps this year, tackling topics such as creative writing, film production and leadership development. From day camps to residential camps where students are housed on campus, the camps provide unique opportunities for learning that can’t be found in a textbook.

“The camps provide students with the opportunities to work with experts in their chosen topics, visit locations and engage with experts they may not have access to on a regular basis,” Schlosser said. “NIU has amazing faculty and staff who share their experiences with campers. It’s really an opportunity students can’t get anywhere else.”

For more information on NIU camps offered by the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, visit the summer camp page or check out other camp offerings at NIU.

by Jane Donahue