Gilbert Hall, which once served as a residence hall, now is home to the Accounting Office, Office of Public Affairs and the Faculty Development and Instructional Design Center.

The former men’s dormitory is named after Newell D. Gilbert, one of NIU’s original faculty members.

Murali Krishnamurthi, director of the Faculty Development and Instructional Design Center, said the building, built in 1952, will stand the test of time and weather.

“This is a solid building, structurally. I’m an engineer and, in case of tornado, you can stay inside and still feel safe. It is a strong building, which I like,” Krishnamurthi said.

W.W. Wirtz, chairman of the State Teachers College Board in 1952, said at the dedication that a building is, and needs to be, more than a solid structure.

“An architectural jewel on the campus must be more than a physical high spot in our pride,” he said. “It must inspire.”

Krishnamurthi said the building does just that.

“It’s a very attractive building,” he said. “From the outside, you look at it, and it is magnificent with the columns and the steps up to it. It’s a beautiful building.”