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Vision, Mission and Values

Our vision, mission and values are more than formal statements. They are the foundation of the NIU experience.

They guide every decision we make, from pioneering research that tackles global challenges to creating transformative learning experiences for our students. Together, these principles shape how we serve our community and advance knowledge.

Our Vision and Mission

Our Vision

An engine for innovation to advance social mobility.

Northern Illinois University's vision is to be an engine for innovation to advance social mobility; promote personal, professional and intellectual growth; and transform the world through research, artistry, teaching and outreach.

Our Mission

Empowering students through educational excellence and experiential learning.

The mission of Northern Illinois University is to empower students through educational excellence and experiential learning as we pursue knowledge, share our research and artistry, and engage communities for the benefit of the region, state, nation and world.

Our Core Values

In pursuing our vision and fulfilling our mission, we value and practice:

Curiosity and Creativity

  • We provide our students active learning experiences.
  • We champion innovation.
  • We commit our resources to supporting students, faculty and staff in their research, artistry and professional development.

Equity and Inclusion

  • We seek and are strengthened by the diverse perspectives and experiences of our university community members.
  • We use an inclusive decision-making process.
  • We appreciate and respect every member of our community.

Ethics and Integrity

  • We prepare our students to become global leaders who work to build a better society.
  • We model ethical behavior in and out of the classroom.
  • We are transparent and accountable to our stakeholders.

Service and Stewardship

  • We serve society and confront local, national and global challenges through collaborations that improve our learning, teaching and research.
  • We make accessible the knowledge and resources we create.
  • We promote our students' success through advising and mentoring.

Approved by the NIU Board of Trustees, March 7, 2019.