Celebrate AAPI Heritage Month: Guest Speaker & Community Member Linh Nguyen

Dr. Linh Nguyen (Dr. Lynn Win)- She/Her currently serves as an instructor for the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Northern Illinois University (NIU).  

Dr. Nguyen’s story of an immigrant from communist Vietnam gives her a unique awareness of an American citizen’s responsibility. Her personal life experience and her work as a scientist inspire her to pursue more transparency and accountability in government. She was willing to make personal sacrifices to represent fellow citizens by running to be the DeKalb County Clerk and Recorder in November 2022.  

Dr. Nguyen did not win the election, but her willingness to serve reminded Dekalb County residents that “citizen” is not a status or a document but a set of responsibilities. Dr. Nguyen’s story is one of challenges, courage, determination, and excellence – indeed, an “only in America” story. 

Dr. Nguyen earned her Doctor of Philosophy in Computational Chemistry at Duquesne University and her -Master of Science in Chemistry at the University of Oklahoma. In spring 2022, Dr. Nguyen was awarded the 2022 Excellence in Online Teaching Award at NIU. 

Most recently, Dr. Nguyen was selected as one of the Finalists for the 2022 ATHENA Award, which honors women who strive to serve as a mentor or role models to help women reach their full leadership potential from the DeKalb Chamber of Commerce. Dr. Nguyen is also a mother, a spouse, a local activist, and a past President of the League of Women Voters of DeKalb County, IL. 

As President of the League of Women Voters during the presidential election in 2020, Dr. Nguyen revitalized the League in DeKalb County. Under her leadership, the league set and accomplished many goals, including numerous voter registration events and candidate forums throughout DeKalb County. 

Register for reminders.