The NIU College of Education’s mission is to prepare the next generation of teachers, athletic trainers, college professors, counselors, technology specialists, exercise scientists, principals, researchers, school business managers, superintendents and more. For the past 125 years, we have done just that. NIU graduates account for 1 of every 5 superintendents, 1 of every 9 principals and 1 out of every 16 teachers in Illinois.
We strive to give students in every College of Education program the best experience and preparation possible. You can make a difference. We encourage you to help by donating to one of the following areas, all of which align with our commitment to engage in high-quality teaching, research and service to prepare students for personal and professional success while equipping them to be leaders and advocates for social change.
DR. LAVERNE GYANT ALUMNI MENTORING PROGRAM
Our Dr. LaVerne Gyant Alumni Mentoring Program connects Black/African American College of Education students with Black/African American College of Education alumni. For alumni, this is a powerful way to give back to the community and support students. For students, the opportunity to network with and receive guidance from a graduate is invaluable.
"After meeting Dr. G and getting introduced to my now mentor, my whole viewpoint of the world, college and life has changed forever. Growing up, I never had another person who I could openly talk to about anything in my life besides my mom, but after meeting my mentor, Victoria, it has created a bond that I will have for a lifetime."
– Dr. G mentee
COLLEGE STRATEGIC PRIORITIES
By supporting the College of Education’s strategic priorities, you help fund important initiatives that keep us as a top college choice.
- Student Experience: We create an environment where all are appreciated for their individuality, respected for their diverse points of view, connected with colleagues and supported by allies. We offer all students engaging and authentic academic experiences. We support persistence in their programs through graduation and preparation for personal and professional success.
- Innovative Action: We develop or customize curricula, programs or practices to improve access; address workforce and community needs; and advance our fields of study.
- Social Justice: We address systems, policies and practices that marginalize people based on social and cultural identities. We empower students, faculty and staff to advocate for equity and social change.
- Research Advancement: We support our faculty and students in research engagement to deepen understanding, build theory, address problems of practice and/or foster partnerships.
- Intentional Growth: We attract and retain diverse faculty and staff. We enhance our student recruitment efforts to increase enrollment in programs that address market demand.
COLLEGE DEPARTMENTS
Our six academic departments are committed to cultivating an equity-focused, inclusive and transformational environment that inspires students, faculty and staff to strive for excellence. Your support helps them advance social justice, teaching, learning, research and practice in their program areas.
- Counseling and Higher Education (CAHE)
- Curriculum and Instruction (CI)
- Educational Technology, Research and Assessment (ETRA)
- Kinesiology and Physical Education (KNPE)
- Leadership, Educational Psychology and Foundations (LEPF)
- Special and Early Education (SEED)