The University Women’s Club will hold a reception Thursday from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at NIU President John Peters’ home, 901 Woodlawn Drive.

The club is planning various activities benefiting both NIU and the community. The group also seeks to create opportunities in a spirit of fellowship.

“We have a philanthropic mission as well as social and educational,” said Nancy Norris, membership co-chair for the club. “We plan on raising money to complete projects for the university, particularly for women at the university.”

This year’s reception will be a wine and cheese affair, giving newcomers a chance to meet women with an NIU connection. Membership to the University Women’s Club is open to any woman who is employed at NIU, a spouse of an employee, a retiree or the spouse of a retiree. Women are encouraged to attend in order to meet women with an NIU connection.

“The reception will be an opportunity for women to sign up for interest groups, such as a bridge club, a Green Thumb club which is a garden group, luncheon groups and day-trip groups,” Norris said.

“We are going to benefit the female students [at NIU],” said Sally Stevens, co-chair for the club. “We will earn money for women with financial problems and also for special emergencies, such as airfare to fly home for a funeral and other unexpected things.”