Northern Illinois University

Chemistry & Biochemistry

 

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
The Michael Faraday Laboratories, NIU
DeKalb, IL 60115-2862
(815) 753-1131

NIU Remembers


Chemistry Magic Show

The NIU Chem Club

The NIU Chemistry Club is open to anyone with an interest in Chemistry. The purpose of this organization is to promote interest in chemistry and the chemical professions, to aid understanding of the field of chemistry, and to provide interaction among individuals engaged in the study of chemistry.

In 2008, the NIU Chem Club will celebrate its 60th anniversary as a recognized student affiliate chapter of the American Chemical Society. Primarily an academic group in its earlier years, the Chem Club has broadened its perspective and now combines its academic pursuits with social activities, networking, and "moral support."

The Chem Club sponsors several outreach events each year, including the Chem Demos and the Glassblowing Demonstration & Sale. The club organizes and presents an evening of chemistry demonstrations twice a year, offering a different theme each semester. In late November, the annual glassblowing demonstration features the work of chemistry department glassblower, Dan Edwards. A glass sale is held after the demonstration, where items made by Edwards are available for purchase. See below for additional details.



Chem Club 2007-2008 Events


AWARDS BANQUET

Chemistry Club 2008 Awards Banquet (photos)

Erin Post, Edwards-Hyland AwardOn Thursday, May 8, the NIU Chem Club hosted an awards banquet, recognizing students who have received departmental scholarships and awards throughout the year.

Congratulations to all award recipients and upcoming graduates!

 

CHEMISTRY MAGIC SHOW

NIU Chemistry Club creates magic for youth of DeKalb County

Genie in a BottleOh, oh it's magic! On Wednesday, March 19, in an auditorium packed with kids of all ages, the NIU Chem Club performed its magic. Professors David Ballantine and Paul Kelter assisted the Chem Club, adding their own tricks to the mix. A few favorites included elephant toothpaste, dueling rockets, and genie in a bottle.

Raffle Prize WinnerAnd, those who will be benefiting most from this night of chemistry magic, are the youth of DeKalb County. The proceeds of a successful 50/50 raffle and all donations collected will help support the Youth Service Bureau, a non-for-profit agency dedicated to improving the lives of DeKalb County youth.

 

GLASSBLOWING DEMONSTRATION & GLASS SALE

NIU Chem Club honors departmental glassblower

Glassblower Dan EdwardsOn Tuesday, Nov. 27, Faraday West 200 was packed with over 130 people and standing room only, as chemistry department glassblower Dan Edwards sculpted a snowman, bonzai tree, and hummingbird during his last demonstration. After 17 years at NIU, Edwards will retire in the coming year.

Photo of audienceA glass sale was held after the demonstration, where items made by Edwards were available for purchase. The proceeds, which totaled over $1800, will help support various activities held by the NIU Chem Club. Congrats to Dan Edwards and the NIU Chem Club. And, thanks to the NIU and local communities for their tremendous support.

 

2007 CHEM DEMOS: The Many Faces of Chemistry

NIU marks National Chemistry Week with evening of demonstrations

Chem DemonstrationCelebrating National Chemistry Week, the NIU Chem Club prepped and pulled off yet another successful chem demo on Tuesday, October 23 (mole day)! With an estimate of between 125-150 people in attendance, the event was a "blast."

Chemistry Club Officers
for 2007-2008:

President
Larecia Knoerzer

Vice President
Mindy Milosch

Treasurer
Nick Kyser


Incoming Chem Club Officers for 2008-2009:

President
Kasey Klaisner

Vice President
Erin Post

Treasurer
Dharti Joshi


Faculty Adviser

David S. Ballantine
Faraday West 424
(815) 753-6857
dballant@niu.edu