From Dekalb to Los Angeles - Northern Illinois University's MLB Executive

The game of baseball has many of stars on its field. What people may not know, is that in order for those players to have that opportunity, a front office executive has to give them the chance.

Closer to Home

Here at NIU, distinguished alumni Ned Colletti made it to the front office of the MLB, and even ran the Los Angeles Dodgers from 2006 to 2014. His career breathes success, but it started here with some adversity.

“When I was a highschool senior, I applied for admissions at NIU and I was rejected, so I was motivated.” Colletti said.

The Early Days

Once Colletti arrived on campus, he was surrounded by a good group of friends from community college. Colletti remembers those experiences fondly, but remembers Dekalb for something entirely different.

“Coming back here today, it was windy believe it or not, and except for Candlestick park in San Francisco where I worked with the Giants for a long time this might be the windiest place in America.” Colletti said.

Big Dreams

Like many, Colletti had dreams of being a professional baseball player, but he realized early this goal might be out of reach. He set his sights on staying within the game in anyway possible.

“I always wanted to be involved with baseball since I was a little boy. I was smart enough to know my baseball career, as a player, was going to have an end to it before I ever started to get paid to play, so I sought another way.” Colletti said.

That other way, turned into one of the more successful executive careers in MLB history. Colletti turned around a Dodger franchise that was in turmoil, they went to the playoffs five of the nine seasons Colletti was their General Manager. If there is one thing he wants people to take from him, is to dream big.

“Anything is possible, you have to be relentless, honorable, and not give up on your dreams and aspirations.” Colletti said.