DYNAMIC LEARNING COMMUNITY
National Louis University (NLU) continues to grow and thrive while increasing access to higher education for learners from all backgrounds. The 2021-22 academic year provided many examples of how our faculty and staff create a dynamic learning environment for each other, our students and the wider community. As you read this report, you will see how our various programs inspire a community committed to lifelong learning. Whether our learners are working towards degrees or credentials, they have access to faculty members committed to utilizing innovative teaching methods, exceptional learning technology, and services designed to let them focus on their studies. NLU also offers extraordinary flexibility for students, including in-person and online learning, and the ability to develop relationships with their cohort while meeting in person as part of our new low-residency programs. We also take a special look at Accelerate U, NLU’s “job-first” higher education concept. This innovative model enables students to begin their new career in three to seven months, while earning up to 30 college credits during their training. Then, after they begin earning a livable wage, they can apply those credits towards additional credentials or a degree at NLU. This new program furthers our commitment to ensure that higher education is accessible to all who seek it. Accelerate U also provides affordable and accessible job training at a time when many Americans question the value of higher education. Our commitment to helping all students attain marketable degrees at affordable prices was acknowledged last summer when the Washington Monthly ranked NLU 4th for social mobility on its National University Rankings and 2nd in the Midwest. These rankings reflect the importance of social mobility and preparing students for careers which serve their country. Overall, NLU was ranked 18th among national universities, surpassing many larger, more well-known institutions. We look forward to building on our success with a greater emphasis on ensuring that education leads to increasing equity and reducing the wealth gap. Research by the Metropolitan Planning Council and Urban Institute estimating the Chicago region could see $4.4 billion in additional income each year and a 30% decrease in homicide if the region were less segregated specifically underscores the need for increased higher education opportunities for all residents. We are committed to being part of the solution for all residents of our hometown to thrive. This is certainly a time when one of NLU’s central mandates — “to serve those who serve”— resonates powerfully. Thanks to the efforts of our faculty and staff, and the generosity of our donors, our community is in a strong position to continue living out our values of innovation, access, excellence and equity in educating the next generation of leaders who will transform their communities and positively impact the direction of our country.
Nivine Megahed, Ph.D. President
Michelle L. Collins Chair, Board of Trustees
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