Award-Winning Journalist PJ Randhawa to Address Northeastern Illinois University Graduates in December 2025

Celebrating the Voice of a New Generation: PJ Randhawa at NEIU's Commencement 2025

In an exciting announcement, Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is set to welcome renowned investigative journalist PJ Randhawa as the commencement speaker for the December 2025 graduation ceremony. Scheduled for December 14, 2025, at Credit Union 1 Arena in Chicago, this event promises to be a poignant moment for the university's graduating students, their families, and the community at large.

A Life of Dedication and Achievement

PJ Randhawa's journey is nothing short of inspiring. Born to immigrant parents from India who settled in Canada, she arrived in Chicago to pursue her education at NEIU. There, she pursued a Bachelor of Arts degree in Communication, Media, and Theatre, culminating in her graduation in 2008. Randhawa’s academic excellence and dedication earned her not only a degree but also invaluable life lessons in resilience and perseverance.

After completing her undergraduate studies at NEIU, Randhawa went on to obtain a master's degree in journalism from DePaul University. In a moment of personal pride for Randhawa, 2025 also marked her achievement of becoming a U.S. citizen, showcasing her commitment to her new home.

Reflecting on her time at NEIU, she shared, "Like many graduates, I discovered a robust sense of community here, along with unmatched mentorship. My professors and peers pushed me to strive for excellence." This sentiment is echoed by NEIU President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan, who recognized Randhawa’s relentless pursuit of knowledge and her remarkable dedication to her field.

Career Milestones and Recognition

Randhawa has established herself as a prominent figure in journalism, currently serving as the Consumer Investigative Reporter for NBC 5. Her investigative work routinely exposes critical societal issues, having previously led significant stories in various roles, including a political reporter in South Carolina and a lead investigative reporter in St. Louis. Her efforts have not only uncovered corruption but have also spurred legislative changes regarding serious issues such as sexual assault and cyberstalking.

In acknowledgment of her impactful work, Randhawa has garnered multiple awards, including seven regional Emmy Awards and recognition as a finalist for the prestigious DuPont Award in 2023. Her accolades extend to other significant honors, including several Society of Professional Journalists Awards for News Excellence and recognition from the National Lesbian and Gay Journalists Association. Her innate ability to highlight important narratives has earned her the International Sikh Award and the honor of having a special day declared in her name in St. Louis.

An Inspiring Address Ahead

As NEIU graduates prepare to embark on their next chapter, Randhawa's speech will resonate with themes of courage, integrity, and the power of storytelling. The values she epitomizes—community engagement, ethical storytelling, and service—mirror the university's mission to cultivate leaders who make a positive impact.

"PJ's journey and accomplishments are a testament to the strength of our diverse academic community at Northeastern Illinois University," President Bell-Jordan noted. "Her lived experience as an international student navigating the complexities of journalism resonates with many of our graduates. We are proud to have her speak at this momentous occasion."

Event Logistics

The commencement ceremony is set to start at 2 p.m. on December 14th, and admission is limited to graduates and their invited guests, with livestream access available on neiu.edu/commencement. This event not only celebrates the academic achievements of the students but also serves as a platform for acknowledging the contributions of voices like Randhawa's, which continue to shape our understanding of the world around us.

Conclusion

As the anticipation builds for the December 2025 commencement, PJ Randhawa’s address promises to inspire a new generation of graduates ready to take their skills and knowledge into the community and beyond. With her rich background and commitment to advocacy, Randhawa embodies the spirit of NEIU and its enduring legacy of fostering impactful leaders.