Michael Cahill, NIU Executive Club & YPN 2009 Scholarship Recipient
Michael Cahill was selected as the 2009 NIU Executive Club & YPN Scholar based on his proven commitment to success in academics, leadership, and community involvement. His strong work ethic and leadership skills provide him with the foundation to become an influential business leader.
Michael graduated in May 2009 from Downers Grove South High School where he was an honor roll student for all four years. As a graduating senior he received the Illinois State Scholars Award and the Presidential Scholars Award. He was also named to the high school's All-Academic Team, which is given to students in the top ten percent of the class.
While achieving in academics, Michael was also a three sport athlete and starter his freshman and sophomore years. Michael also served as captain of both his baseball and junior varsity basketball teams. His senior year, Michael was a starter and a varsity letter recipient on the basketball team. In addition, as a senior Michael was nominated in basketball as All-Conference, All-Academic and All-State, All-Academic.
Michael held the treasurer position in a student business club called DECA. He was an active club member, qualifying for the state DECA competition in the sports and entertainment marketing event. Michael was also a member of the Athletes Committed to Excellence Club (ACE), serving on two committees. The ACE Club plans events in order to reach out to the community and deliver a positive message to future high school students.
Outside of school activities, Michael was involved in community service through his church's food pantry and the local YMCA.
His employment experience includes working as a cashier at Sylvia's Bakery, a groundskeeper for the Downers Grove Park District, a baseball umpire for the Darien Youth Club, and a certified caddy at Ruth Lake Country Club. By members request and recommendation, Michael received honors and caddy rewards.
Michael believes in commitment and a well-rounded lifestyle; and although he has enjoyed success in sports and his community involvement, he has always made academics his highest priority.
Michael believes that an Accounting Degree from the NIU College of Business will prepare him to work for a top accounting firm and provide him with the competitive advantage based on the Department of Accountancy rankings and CPA pass rate. Michael has been accepted into Northern Illinois University's Honors Program and wants to represent NIU proudly.
Nicholas Pikor, NIU Executive Club Young Professionals Network 2008 Scholarship Recipient
Nicholas Pikor was selected as the first Young Professionals Network Scholar. He graduated in May, 2008, from Oak Forest High School.
In addition to his outstanding academic achievements, Nicholas participated as a two-sport athlete. He played golf in the fall and volleyball in the spring, and achieved All-Conference honors in both sports. He was Co-Captain of the Varsity Golf Team, and voted Most Valuable Player. He was also a recipient of the Scholar Athlete Award.
Nicholas contributes to the community as a member of the Interact Club. He also volunteers as a camp counselor, and is a member of the National Junior Honor Society. Nicholas was able to achieve high academic achievements, participate in sports, serve the community, and hold a job during his high school years. He earned money as a Caddy and as a paper distributor.
Nicholas was selected as the first YPN Scholar based on his potential and desire to become a business leader. Because of his strong interests in mathematics and economics, he plans to pursue a career in banking or finance. Nicholas believes that a degree from the nationally-ranked NIU College of Business would be a great honor and will provide the knowledge and experiences he needs to achieve his goals.
