STUDENT AFFAIRS ANNUAL REPORT (2025-2026) 30 Kendall Named Student Affairs Staff Partner of the Year Brian Kendall has been selected as the 2026 Student Affairs Staff Partner of the Year in recognition of his exceptional service, authentic partnership and meaningful impact on the student experience at Northern. Brian began working in the Student Center during a time of significant transition, as Lincoln Hall was being demolished and campus operations were shifting in major ways. From the very beginning, Brian stepped in with care, consistency and a deep commitment to supporting students, Student Affairs and the Student Center. His work helped ensure that the building remained welcoming, functional and ready to serve as a central gathering place for campus life. Known for his strong communication and solution-oriented approach, Brian has been a trusted partner in helping events run smoothly. Whether coordinating details behind the scenes, responding to unexpected challenges or finding flexible ways to support student-centered programs, he consistently brings a calm, helpful and thoughtful presence to his work. Brian’s care for the Student Center was so evident that Student Affairs staff often joked about trying to bribe him not to leave for the new Business Building. While said in fun, the sentiment reflects the sincere appreciation felt by those who worked alongside him. His pride in the building, attention to detail and genuine investment in the people it served made a lasting impression. For being an authentic partner, a steady supporter and a truly wonderful human being, Brian Kendall is exceptionally deserving of this recognition. We are grateful for his service to Northern and proud to honor him as the 2026 Student Affairs Staff Partner of the Year. Kiesow Named Student Affairs Faculty Partner of the Year Student Affairs is fortunate to work alongside exceptional faculty and academic leaders who share a commitment to student success. Each year, the Faculty Partner of the Year Award recognizes an individual whose collaboration, advocacy, and dedication have strengthened the student experience at Northern. The 2025-26 recipient, Dr. Alyssa Kiesow, exemplifies those qualities. As dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, Kiesow was a consistent and trusted partner in advancing student-centered initiatives. Over the years, Student Affairs and the College of Arts and Sciences collaborated on numerous projects, including the development of two living-learning communities, efforts to support a degree-in-three pathway, expanded support for Student Accessibility Services, and many other initiatives that often occurred behind the scenes. Whether serving as a sounding board for
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