DEKALB, Ill. – Following 22 years guiding the Northern Illinois University women's track and field program, Connie Teaberry has resigned to accept the head coaching position at East Tennessee State, NIU Vice President/Director of Athletics and Recreation Sean T. Frazier announced on Tuesday (Sept. 1). 

In her 22 years leading the Huskies, Teaberry's student-athletes have broken 125 school records, won 44 Mid-American Conference titles, had 64 NCAA Preliminary Round qualifiers, sent seven individuals to the NCAA Championships and produced four All-Americans while also guiding the Huskies to the 2021 MAC Indoor Team Championship. In 2024, Lorena Martin, who competed for NIU under Teaberry from 2014-18, represented Spain in the 800 meters at the Summer Olympics. 

"We are grateful for all of the contributions that Coach Teaberry has made to the Huskie track and field program during her 22 years at NIU," said Frazier. "From All-Americans to Olympians, she has made a positive contribution to the lives of hundreds of NIU student-athletes, not just on the track but off the track as well. Connie has led the program with integrity and professionalism throughout her tenure. She will always be a Huskie, and we wish her all the best in the future."

Teaberry, who came to NIU in 2004 as head coach and was promoted to Director of Track and Field in 2011, represented NIU as an assistant coach with USA Track and Field at the 2019 NACAC U23 Championships, the 2024 World Athletics Indoor Championships and the 2025 World Athletics Championships. 

"It has been my pleasure working for Northern Illinois University for 22 years," said Teaberry. "I walk away with great friendships, experiences, and love for campus and in the DeKalb community. I grew so much as a coach and person, learning not just about athletics but life. I have come across some amazing student athletes, that to this day still keep in touch. Their dedication, work ethic and allowing me to be a part of their growth academically, athletically, and in life is my WHY.  Thank you for believing in me as your coach and allowing me to lead the program.  

"Thank you to all the administrators, my staff (past and present) and co-workers of all departments I have had the pleasure of working with. Your belief in me, the program and your support of my family is greatly appreciated, I couldn't have sat in this seat this long without you. Mr. Frazier, thank you! Your unwavering encouragement gave me confidence to step outside of just coaching and broaden my wings to be in rooms to make a difference in my sport. Your vision of me and your countless uplifting conversations helped me see beyond the track. I am forever grateful! Again, Thank You NIU, Red and Black will always be a part of my heart and Go Huskies!"

NIU will begin a search for new leadership of the track and field program immediately.