
NIU Is Committed to an Inclusive Workplace

NIU Is Committed to an Inclusive Workplace
Diversity, equity and inclusion are defining characteristics at NIU. We know that the differences, along with the commonalities, of all who live, study and work here shape and strengthen our Huskie family in meaningful ways. NIU is committed to recruiting and supporting employees who represent diverse communities and identities in our society.
About NIU
Northern Illinois University is a student-centered, nationally recognized public research university, with expertise that benefits its region and spans the globe in a wide variety of fields, including the sciences, humanities, arts, business, engineering, education, health and law. Through its main campus in DeKalb, Illinois, and education centers for students and working professionals in Chicago, Naperville, Oregon and Rockford, NIU offers more than 100 areas of study while serving a diverse and international student body.
Institutional Priorities
NIU’s commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion and belonging underpins our efforts to realize our mission and vision, live our values and co-create a welcoming university community where all voices are heard, valued and respected.
Leadership
“At the heart of our efforts to champion and nurture our strengths as a diverse, equitable and inclusive community are intentional goals, strategies, policies and practices that are resulting in positive change. I’m proud of the collaborative work we’ve done so far, eager to continue making progress and honored to be recognized [as a top college for diversity].”
“We take great pride in this award and in our longstanding tradition of providing access and opportunity to underserved populations and identities, but we also recognize we need to give them the tools, support and resources they need to succeed,”
Points of Pride
The university’s test-free admission and merit scholarship process has broadened opportunities for underrepresented students, including students of color, first-generation college students and those from low-income households.
2022 Fall Freshman Class Highlights
- The average high school GPA of the class was 3.42, the highest average GPA for new freshmen on record. Nearly 500 of those students had 4.0 high school GPAs.
- First-generation college students made up 56% of the class.
- Most diverse freshman class in the university’s history.
Huskie Spotlight

"… my colleagues are amazing. I really appreciate the collegiality and the cooperative spirit that is displayed on a daily basis. It really makes working at NIU that much better."
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