Alumna and Emmy-winning reporter PJ Randhawa to inspire Northeastern Illinois University graduates

A familiar voice returns for December graduation

PJ Randhawa, an award-winning journalist and a graduate of Northeastern Illinois University, will deliver the university’s December 2025 commencement address on the Chicago campus. The appearance brings a familiar face back to the stage: Randhawa has spent her career reporting major local and national stories and has won wide recognition for investigative work. For graduates, the speech promises practical advice about entering a fast-changing media world, while for the university it is a high-profile moment to celebrate alumni success and community ties. Randhawa’s return is also meant to spotlight careers in public service and storytelling — themes many graduates have studied or will pursue. Her presence underscores the university’s role in training journalists and civic-minded professionals.

A career built on investigation and community reporting

Randhawa graduated from Northeastern Illinois University and began her journalism career in local newsrooms before rising to larger markets. She is a seven-time Emmy winner and has been praised for digging into stories that affect ordinary people, from public safety and health to government accountability. Her investigative pieces have led to policy reviews and community changes, and her work has been carried on major local television stations where she anchored or reported on breaking news and long-term projects.

Over two decades, Randhawa has covered a wide range of beats. She has reported from crime scenes, city halls, and courtrooms; produced multi-part investigations; and hosted community forums that connected officials with residents. In addition to on-air reporting, she has been a mentor to young journalists, speaking at colleges and workshops about ethics, source work, and adapting to digital news. Her awards list includes multiple regional Emmys and other honors from press organizations recognizing depth and public impact.

Those credentials, along with her status as an alumna, made her a natural pick for NEIU’s December address. She has kept ties to the Chicago area and often cites her college experience as a foundation for pursuing a journalism career that balances toughness with compassion. Her reporting has won attention beyond Chicago; she has been invited to national panels on journalism and has worked with nonprofit groups on media literacy. Students say she models curiosity, persistence, and a clear voice — traits that NEIU hopes to highlight to the graduating class.

When and where: ceremony details for graduates and guests

NEIU’s winter commencement will take place on the university’s main campus in Chicago during December 2025. The ceremony is scheduled for an afternoon session and will be held in an on-campus venue large enough for graduates and their guests. The university expects several thousand attendees across multiple ceremonies that day, with this event serving the December degree candidates. Tickets or guest registration details will be sent to graduates by email and posted on NEIU’s commencement webpage. The university has said that free parking and limited guest seating policies will be shared in the coming weeks. Livestream options will be available for family members who cannot attend in person.

University and honoree respond: what this address means to the campus

NEIU’s president said, “We are proud to welcome one of our own back to campus. PJ’s career shows the power of public service and clear reporting, and we hope her words will inspire our graduates.” Randhawa said in a statement: “It is an honor to return to the place where I found my voice. I look forward to celebrating the hard work of this class and to speaking about how curiosity and courage built my path.” Student leaders also praised the pick, saying the choice highlights real-world careers and local role models.

Why her return matters to alumni and the wider community

Having an alumna journalist deliver the address connects classroom learning to life after college. It sends a message that local roots can lead to national impact and that careers in reporting and civic work remain vital. For the university, the visit strengthens alumni ties and offers a visible example of success to current students. For graduates, the theme of public service and ethical reporting gives a practical frame for building careers that matter to communities.

How media and attendees can follow or contact the university

Media accreditation and press inquiries should be directed to Northeastern Illinois University’s Office of Communications. Reporters may request press credentials, interview access, and livestream links via the university newsroom or by referencing the official PR statement issued to news outlets.

Sources

• prnewswire.com