A college degree is a key component in social mobility. NIU prides itself on our long tradition of providing access and opportunity to underserved populations who come to college, not only to achieve their personal and career goals, but also to make a difference in their families, communities, states and nations.
• 53% of NIU students are first in their family to attend college.
• 74% of the NIU student body are from underserved populations — including students of color and those from low-income households.
The dream doesn’t come easily. Many of these students work multiple jobs to cover school expenses and struggle to cover everyday expenses such as housing, food, child care and transportation.
For many, the dream is interrupted. More than two-thirds of Liberal Arts and Sciences students from underserved populations leave NIU by their junior year. More than 200 students drop out each year during their final four semesters due to outstanding balances and increasing debt. The average amount needed to keep these students going was $2,000.
Imagine the frustration and sadness of having hopes dashed and a dream interrupted due to a couple of thousand dollars.
Huskies are family — and there’s power within this pack. A group of alumni and donors wanted to leverage their resources to help as many of these students realize their dream. They need your help to assist more students reach the finish line.
