Priorities

These are the key priorities for NIU's Division of Academic Affairs. With each of these priorities, we value and prioritize collaboration, communication and innovation, to support the best possible outcomes.

• Student success
• Faculty success
• Innovative academic programs
• Inclusive excellence
• Partnerships

Model for Student Success

Our model for student success at NIU includes the following themes:

• Academics

  • Offer innovative academic programs with excellent instruction and meaningful opportunities for student research, co-curricular and experiential learning.
  • Develop personalized academic plans and pathways supported by professional advisors.
  • Provide robust and holistic academic support services including program advisors, course support, writing and research support and academic skill-building.
• Inclusive Excellence

  • Cultivate an institutional culture of excellence through inclusion and belonging.
  • Conduct ongoing assessment towards consistent improvement with an equity-minded approach.
  • Eliminate barriers to ensure and advance access and opportunities for all students.
• Care and Support

  • Advance a culture that centers and serves Huskies through an ethic of care for comprehensive well-being.
  • Encourage and provide support for physical, emotional and social well-being and personal growth throughout the student experience.
  • Foster social connections and life-skill development through shared interests.
• Engagement and Belonging

  • Provide skill-building and community engagement opportunities to support students across their academic journey and beyond.
  • Ensure every student has access to meaningful engagement opportunities, promoting a sense of belonging.
  • Prioritize an inclusive and equitable student experience with diverse perspectives to equip and enact transformative change while fostering a sense of community.
• Financial Literacy

  • Equip students with resources to develop essential financial management skills.
  • Increase awareness and access to scholarships and financial support systems.
  • Assist students in creating individualized financial plans.
• Career Development

  • Foster meaningful career development from day one through graduation.
  • Provide linkages of academic interests with career education for students to develop career competencies.
  • Develop employer and community partnerships to provide students with access to social networks and experiential opportunities including internships and clinical experiences.

Model for Faculty Success

Our model for faculty success at NIU includes the following themes:

• Sense of belonging
• Scholarship and artistry
• Mentoring
• Service and leadership
• Professional development
• Teaching excellence