For many college graduates, returning to campus is something that happens years—or even decades—down the road. For Natalia Knutsen, it’s become an integral part of her identity.
Lately, some of that connection stems from her pursuit of a Master of Business Administration at Northern Illinois University. But even more—and even before she enrolled in those classes—it reflects a desire to give back to the community that helped shape her journey.
Five years after graduating from NIU’s College of Engineering and Engineering Technology (CEET) with a degree in biomedical engineering, Knutsen returned on May 1st as keynote speaker for the college’s Spring Awards Ceremony.
“Natalia’s story resonates because so many of our students can see pieces of themselves in her journey,” CEET Dean Dave Grewell said. “She understands the challenges students face, she’s built an impressive career and she continues showing up to help the next generation succeed. That makes her a tremendous role model.”
In a message grounded in experience and gratitude, Knutsen noted that she was a first-generation college student and relied on financial support, mentorship and campus resources to complete her degree.
That support system, she said, has fueled her volunteerism as a graduate.
“I remember being in your shoes just five years ago,” she told students who were in the audience. “I didn’t know what my path would look like—but I knew I had to keep pushing forward.”
Knutsen said she didn’t know anyone when she first arrived on NIU’s DeKalb campus.
“I was definitely a lot more introverted than I am right now,” she recalled. “Over time, NIU became my second home—a place that felt comfortable and familiar. I met all of my best friends here. I met my husband here during my sophomore year. Those relationships really formed the foundation of who I’ve become.”
As a student, Knutsen balanced coursework with a demanding role as a field engineer apprentice, traveling to hospitals to service CT (computed tomography) equipment while finishing her degree.
She’s now an associate quality manager for Medline, a manufacturer and distributor of medical-surgical products. She joined the company in 2023 after nearly three years with GE Healthcare.
In her remarks, Knutsen urged students to advocate for themselves and their ambitions, emphasizing that confidence and self-belief are critical in launching a career. She also spoke about the importance of inspiring others—particularly as a woman in engineering—and the responsibility to help expand access and opportunity in the field.
“I realize that my achievements may be setting a pathway for another woman or girl interested in STEM,” Knutsen said. “As the ratio of female to male engineers continues to approach balance, it is important to continue to inspire those around us. I am employed on a team where leadership is majority female members.”
And she reframed ownership as a form of leadership: taking initiative, solving problems and driving continuous improvement. That mindset extends beyond her career and into her ongoing engagement with CEET.
Knutsen is an active leader in the Engineering and Technology Alumni Society (ETAS), regularly returning to campus as a panel speaker at open houses, a participant in Challenge Coin ceremonies celebrating graduates, and a judge for Senior Design projects. She is also a member of the CEET Hall of Fame Selection Committee, which this past year inducted the college’s inaugural class as part of CEET’s 40th anniversary.
Fittingly, she was also present at last year’s Spring Awards event, receiving the Dean’s Alumni Award. After Knutsen’s remarks, the 2026 Spring Awards honorees were recognized:
Outstanding Staff Award: Emilie Larson, administrative assistant to the Dean
Outstanding Freshman Award for Academic Achievement: Tristen Hemby
Outstanding Sophomore Award for Academic Achievement: Pratyaksh LNU
Outstanding Junior Award for Academic Achievement: Jerry Stamos
Outstanding Senior Award for Academic Achievement: Alexander Jakopin
Outstanding Student Organization Award for Service and Engagement: Huskie Motorsports
Among other achievements, the Motorsports team elevated CEET’s engineering programs this past year through a booth that drew extensive spotlight in February at the Chicago Auto Show, one of the largest auto shows in North America.
