About the NIU Foundation
Chartered in 1949, the Northern Illinois University (NIU) Foundation is officially recognized as a tax-exempt, non-profit charitable organization under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Foundation advances philanthropy to support access to higher education, student success and the long-term strength of Northern Illinois University.
In 2020, the NIU Foundation and NIU Alumni Association merged, unifying philanthropic and alumni engagement efforts to create a more cohesive experience for donors and alumni. Today, thousands of donors support scholarships, facilities, faculty excellence, academic programs and global learning each year — helping break down barriers to education and expand NIU’s impact.
Our Values
We believe philanthropy is a potent and vital force and represents a vast source for growth in support of NIU. The W.I.N values capture the Foundation’s belief that meaningful progress happens through how we show up for one another, how we build trust and how we persevere when the work gets hard.
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Work Together
We know that when we combine our strengths, we create solutions and opportunities no single person could achieve alone.
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Inspire Trust and Impact
Trust is earned daily—through clear communication, follow through and respect for the people and communities we serve.
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Never Quit
Challenges are inevitable, but we face them with creativity, optimism and a belief in NIU’s mission.
Our Board of Directors
The NIU Foundation Board of Directors is comprised of a group of committed volunteers, responsible for the management of the NIU Foundation. The Board bears fiduciary responsibility for the investment and management of all funds raised by the Foundation on behalf of Northern Illinois University.
Our Campaign
FORWARD: The Campaign for NIU is the largest fundraising campaign in our history, mobilizing $300 million to propel student success, faculty excellence and community impact. Our Campaign is a bold, comprehensive effort to strengthen the university’s mission of empowering students through educational excellence and experiential learning.