Northeastern Illinois University has announced that acclaimed investigative journalist and six-time Emmy Award recipient PJ Randhawa will deliver the December 2025 Commencement Address. Randhawa, who graduated from NEIU in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in Communication, Media and Theatre, will speak at the ceremony on December 14 at 2 p.m. The event will take place at Chicago’s Credit Union 1 Arena and will be accessible to graduates and their invited guests through ticketed entry. A livestream will also be available on the university’s website for broader viewing.
NEIU President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan praised Randhawa’s journey, highlighting how professors remembered her as a highly motivated and curious student who consistently exceeded expectations. Randhawa’s story reflects that of many NEIU students who find direction, mentorship, and community during their academic experience.
Born to immigrant parents from the Punjab region of India and raised in Canada, Randhawa came to NEIU as an international student. She recalls entering the university shy and unsure of her abilities, but the support she received from faculty transformed her confidence. She credits her time at NEIU—and the encouragement of her mentors—for helping her discover her voice, develop her storytelling skills, and push her ambitions further than she once thought possible.
After completing her undergraduate studies, Randhawa earned a master’s degree in journalism from DePaul University. Her professional path has taken her across the country, including work as a political reporter in South Carolina, a morning anchor in South Dakota, and an investigative journalist in St. Louis and Seattle. She now serves as the Consumer Investigative Reporter for NBC 5 Responds in Chicago.
Throughout her career, Randhawa’s investigations have uncovered misconduct in law enforcement, exposed failures within public agencies, and contributed to the creation of new state laws addressing issues like sexual assault and cyberstalking. Her achievements have earned her numerous honors, including a 2023 DuPont Finalist recognition, regional Edward R. Murrow Awards, a Crystal Mic Award, multiple SPJ Awards, and a National Excellence in Journalism Award. In 2022, the City of St. Louis even proclaimed January 14 as “PJ Randhawa Day” in acknowledgment of the impact of her reporting.
President Bell-Jordan noted that Randhawa’s dedication to ethical journalism and public service makes her a powerful voice for this year’s graduates as they step into their own roles as leaders and changemakers.
