Give Over Time

Endowments

An endowment is one of the most meaningful ways to make a lasting difference at Northern Illinois University. Your gift creates permanent support for the people and programs you care about, helping students, faculty and the university thrive for generations to come.

Unlike an annual gift, the principal of an endowed fund is invested to provide ongoing support year after year. The income generated from the endowment is used for the purpose you choose—whether it’s scholarships, academic programs, faculty excellence, research or another area that reflects your passions and values.

By creating an endowment, you’re building a legacy that grows over time, providing reliable support that helps NIU meet today’s opportunities while preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.

If you’d like to explore creating an endowed fund, complete the contact form below. A member of our development team will be happy to discuss your goals and help you create a lasting impact at NIU.

Endowment Levels

Minimum Endowment Levels

• Strategic Priorities and General Scholarship: $25,000+
• Scholarships with one restriction on student selection (e.g. academic merit, financial need, specific major of study): $50,000+
• A growing-to-endowed option is available that allows three to five years to build up to the minimum funding levels of $25,000 and $50,000.

Academic Endowment Minimum Levels

• Dean’s Chair: $2 Million
• Faculty Chair: $1 Million
• Professorship: $500,000
• Lectureship: $100,000