Why Give

For nearly 140 years, National Louis University (NLU) has been a leader in accessible, innovative, and inclusive higher education.

Founded in 1886 by educational pioneer Elizabeth Harrison, NLU began with a revolutionary vision: to train women—primarily immigrants—to teach very young children, thereby improving prospects for families and communities.

NLU offers more than 80 high-quality programs across seven colleges, spanning teaching and education administration, computer science, social work, psychology and counseling, business and leadership, culinary arts, and health professions. NLU is deeply committed to making higher education affordable and accessible, particularly for non-traditional students- students who are first in their families to attend college, balancing work and family responsibilities, working full time, or returning to school later in life. With an average undergraduate tuition of approximately $12,000 annually and access to maximum state and federal aid, many students can pursue their degrees with zero out-of-pocket cost. Beyond affordability, NLU offers flexible program structures, including evening, weekend, and online courses, as well as innovative pathways which allows adult learners maximum flexibility.

Affordability and flexibility alone are not enough—students need a clear path to career success and upward mobility. At NLU, programs are intentionally designed to align with workforce demands and equip students with skills that translate directly into meaningful, sustainable careers. By focusing on employment outcomes, economic mobility, and professional advancement, NLU ensures that students' education doesn't just impart knowledge, but opportunities to transform their lives, support their families, and contribute to their communities. In doing so, the university makes a college degree both accessible and impactful for learners who might otherwise be excluded from traditional higher education pathways.

Supporting NLU means investing in individuals who are gaining the skills, credentials, and opportunities to achieve upward mobility—and in turn, strengthening communities both in Chicago and beyond by creating a more educated, empowered, and economically vibrant population; philanthropy plays a critical role in making this transformative impact possible.

Contact us today to learn more.