NIU Strategic Enrollment Management Plan
As the higher education landscape shifted in 2019, Northern Illinois University formalized its enrollment management work through the first Strategic Enrollment Management Plan, establishing a coordinated, strategic approach to attracting, enrolling, retaining and graduating students.
Strategic Enrollment Management Plan 3.0 (2026-2028)
The Strategic Enrollment Management (SEM) Plan 3.0 outlines NIU's renewed and forward-looking approach to attracting, enrolling, retaining and graduating students who reflect the diversity of our region, nation and world. Building on the foundation of the first two SEM plans dating back to 2019, this updated plan maintains our three overarching goals while introducing refined strategies and objectives that respond to current realities, institutional priorities and student needs.
Previous Plans
SEM Plan (2019-2023)
SEM Plan 2.0 (2023-2025)
- Full Plan 2.0 Document (PDF)
- Accountability Plan 2.0 (PDF)
- Key Accomplishments (DOCX)
Goal 1:
Strengthen and promote our distinctive identity
NIU will elevate its brand by showcasing academic excellence, vibrant campus life and transformative student experiences. Strategies include:
- A comprehensive marketing campaign focused on academic excellence, career outcomes and impact.
- Amplification of student, alumni and faculty stories.
- Brand standards refresh.
- A health assessment of NIU’s marketing and communications infrastructure.
Goal 2:
Achieve student enrollment that reflects our mission and region
NIU will implement focused, data-informed recruitment strategies for distinct student segments, including high school students, transfers, graduate students, adult learners, online students, current NIU undergraduate students and international students. Strategies include:
- Customized outreach and messaging by student persona.
- Launch of a Recruitment Impact Network (RIN) to engage campus partners.
- Strengthened partnerships with community organizations and influencers.
- Optimization of enrollment technologies, including CRM and AI tools.
Goal 3:
Support access, opportunity and success for all students
NIU will foster a student-centered environment that promotes persistence, belonging and degree completion. Strategies include:
- Holistic support for student transitions and engagement.
- Innovative academic programs and career development integration.
- Expanded mental health, wellness and safety initiatives.
- A culture of care and inclusive excellence across campus.
Contact Us
Laurie Elish-Piper
Executive Vice President and Provost
laurieep@niu.edu
Sol Jensen
Vice President, Enrollment Management, Marketing and Communications
sjensen1@niu.edu