Northeastern Illinois University hosted a Community Forum on Thursday, April 30, to a room of nearly 100 neighbors, members of the community and civic organization leaders. The forum began with a brief presentation of current NEIU projects by President Sharon Hahs and Vice President for Student Affairs Frank E. Ross. A University panel discussion that also included Vice President for Finance and Administration Michael Pierick, NEIU Police Chief Jim Lyon and Director Natalie Brouwer Potts followed with the panel answering pre-submitted questions that were collected by the Hollywood-North Park Community Association. HNPCA President Carmen Rodriguez co-moderated the night's event. Nearly a dozen community members participated in the public comments portion of the forum.

A recap of the answers that were delivered by the panel that night are now available online. Check the archives section of the Northeastern Neighbors website for that and other information.

The University celebrated an historic moment on Thursday during a groundbreaking ceremony for its first residence hall, which will be located on its current 67 acres just south of its Parking Facility. Approximately 250 people, who attended the ceremony to help kick-off this 15-month project, heard remarks from University leaders, including the Student Government Association President. Currently, Northeastern Illinois University is the only public state university without a residence life component. This will change with the residence hall opens in August 2016 to welcome its inaugural group of student residents. More information about the project is available on www.neiustudenthousing.com.

The University invites members of the community to take advantage of the resources, events and activities that Northeastern has to offer. For those who sign up for NEIU's Blue-and-Gold membership, which starts at $30, a number of discounts are available, including annual membership to NEIU Campus Recreation for $185, Ronald Williams Library resource access, 10% discount on tickets to NEIU Performing Arts events, 10% discount on NEIU apparel from Beck's Bookstore, 20% discount for Theater Performances and more. Register online to become a member. Those who are not graduates of Northeastern should sign up for the associate memberships.

The newly relaunched Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE) program at Northeastern offers a variety of non-credit courses that are open to members of the community. Choose classes from any of the three categories: Personal and Professional Development, General Interest and Lifelong Learning, and Computers and Technology. Visit the University's CAPE website for more information.

Our neighborhood spans a large geography that encompasses businesses, institutions and residents who represent a very diverse array of viewpoints. It is important to us that we understand the issues and concerns -- about our events, programming, projects, etc. -- that can help strengthen our relationship as neighbors. We invite you to share your thoughts with us online.