Still Hall and neighboring Still Gym once were known as “The Men’s Buildings” but now serve both sexes as the home of Media Services and the department of technology

Originally, Still Hall was acknowledged as a home to young college men.

“This ensemble of buildings makes a special appeal to young men who are seeking a college that will satisfy their athletic urge and at the same time furnish all modern equipment for industrial training,” stated NIU’s 1928 Yearbook and Annual Catalogue.

Construction on the building began in 1926 and was completed in 1928. It was dedicated officially as Still Hall on Oct. 20, 1928.

The collegiate gothic-style building was named after 1920s DeKalb civic leader Edgar Still. Still came to DeKalb in 1912 and took on many roles: pharmacy owner, alderman, county board supervisor and vice president of a local bank.

Gordon Means, director of Media Services, said the building’s exterior is unassuming.

“It does not draw attention to itself, but I find it quite appropriate to a conventional campus setting,” he said. “Its location next to Altgeld and looking to the East Lagoon is quite pleasing. I think one of the most pleasing spaces on the entire campus can be found at the front entrance to Still Hall when the redbud trees are in bloom in the spring.”