Northeastern Neighbors

We are excited to kick off our new academic year and welcome students, faculty, and staff back to campus. As the fall semester gets underway, we are pleased to share several updates with our neighbors and community partners.

Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence

This fall, NEIU is launching its new Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence, making NEIU the first public university in Chicago to offer a bachelor's degree in AI.

The program goes beyond teaching students how to use Artificial Intelligence tools. Students will study programming, mathematics, data structures, machine learning and natural language processing while also examining the ethical and societal implications of artificial intelligence.

Ethical reasoning, fairness and social responsibility are integrated throughout the curriculum, preparing students to develop AI solutions that are both innovative and responsible.

Master of Science in Nursing – Entry into Practice

NEIU is also preparing to launch its new Master of Science in Nursing – Entry into Practice program at El Centro.

The program will create a new pathway into the nursing profession for individuals who already hold a bachelor's degree in another field and want to become registered nurses. The program will combine rigorous academic preparation with hands-on clinical and simulation experiences.

The MSN-EP program represents another important expansion of NEIU's academic portfolio and our commitment to responding to critical workforce needs in Chicago and across Illinois.

Welcoming New NEIU Leadership

We are also pleased to welcome three new leaders to the NEIU community.

Dr. Kiantra D. Loza, Vice President for Enrollment Management
Dr. Kiantra D. Loza joined NEIU as Vice President for Enrollment Management on August 3. She brings more than a decade of experience in enrollment management, student affairs and institutional leadership.

Most recently, Dr. Loza served as Executive Director of Admissions, Outreach and Enrollment Services at the College of DuPage, where she provided strategic leadership for admissions, recruitment, outreach, enrollment services, communications, analytics and student success initiatives.

Her work has focused on expanding access, strengthening enrollment and improving the student experience through innovative and data-informed strategies. Dr. Loza is also an active national leader through organizations including NASPA and the American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers.

Dr. Eric J. Pegués, Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
Dr. Eric J. Pegués joined NEIU on July 15 as Executive Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.

Dr. Pegués most recently served at Tulane University in New Orleans, where he was Senior Director for Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and led the Carolyn Barber-Pierre Center for Intercultural Life. He previously served at the University of Illinois Chicago and has held leadership positions at Ball State University and Augsburg University.

Throughout his career, Dr. Pegués has focused on student success, belonging, and engagement, and on building institutional environments in which students, faculty, and staff can thrive.

Ms. Pamela Pirtle, NEIU Ombudsman
Ms. Pamela L. Pirtle joins NEIU as University Ombudsman, bringing extensive experience in public service, higher education, equal opportunity, and organizational leadership. Her career includes leadership roles with the Illinois Department of Human Rights, Arlington County, Illinois State University, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Northwestern University, and most recently, the Freedom School in Chicago. As Ombudsman, Ms. Pirtle will serve as a resource for members of the NEIU community, providing guidance, helping navigate concerns, and identifying options for constructive resolution.

We are excited to welcome both Dr. Loza, Dr. Pegués and Ms. Pirtle to Northeastern and look forward to the leadership they will bring to the University.

Bryn Mawr Properties and Parking

NEIU continues to take near-term steps to address the University-owned properties along the Bryn Mawr corridor, including property maintenance and safety improvements, efforts to activate available commercial space, and changes intended to encourage greater use of campus parking. At the same time, the University is advancing its long-term planning through the development of a comprehensive Campus Master Plan, which is a key element of the University’s new Strategic Plan and will help guide future decisions about all of NEIU's facilities, properties, and physical footprint.

Near-Term Planning

Former TCF Bank Suite: As part of our near-term efforts, NEIU is moving forward with plans to market and lease the former TCF Bank suite at Bryn Mawr and Kimball. A real estate broker has been selected, and the contract is currently under legal review. Once that process is completed, the broker will help market the space and identify potential tenants.

At the suggestion of the Hollywood-North Park Community Association, we also explored whether the space could potentially accommodate an ice cream shop. University representatives spoke with a neighboring business owner about the concept. Unfortunately, contractual restrictions associated with the existing 7-Eleven agreement prevent that particular use. We remain interested in identifying other viable opportunities for the space.

Property Maintenance and Improvements: We are also addressing near-term maintenance and safety needs along the corridor. A dead tree located between two buildings on the south side of Bryn Mawr was recently removed to protect pedestrians using the sidewalk.

Over the past several weeks, we have been obtaining quotes to replace the window next to 7-Eleven that was damaged when a vehicle backed into it. We anticipate selecting a vendor and moving forward with the replacement within the next month.We will move forward with one of them within the next month. In addition, work is underway to improve the plaza's overall appearance and make it more welcoming to neighbors, visitors, and prospective businesses. As part of this effort, old and damaged concrete planters were recently removed from the corner parking area beneath the plaza sign.

The University is also repairing lighting underneath the business signs in the plaza to improve visibility and safety.

Student Parking: Beginning this fall, NEIU is changing how students pay for campus parking. Parking will now be included in the Mandatory General Student Fee, rather than requiring students to apply for and pay for parking separately.

We hope this change will encourage more students to use University parking facilities and may help reduce the number of students seeking parking on residential streets surrounding the University.

NEIU is updating its Parking Services website and campus signage to reflect the change, and students will receive additional information during Welcome Week.

Long-Term Planning

Campus Master Plan: While these near-term efforts address some of our current needs, as part of the University’s new Strategic Plan. NEIU is also moving forward with a comprehensive Campus Master Plan that will help guide the University's longer-term planning and decision-making for all of its facilities and properties.

NEIU has worked closely with key stakeholders and the State to develop and refine the solicitation for the Campus Master Plan. The RFP was submitted to the State for review in mid-July and has undergone several revisions. It is expected to be resubmitted this week and posted by late August, followed by evaluation and selection, with Board approval of the selected firm anticipated in October or November.

NEIU's Financial Outlook 

We are also pleased to share positive news about the University's continued financial progress.
On August 14, S&P Global Ratings revised Northeastern Illinois University's credit outlook from "stable" to "positive" while affirming the University's investment-grade "BBB-" long-term rating.

A positive outlook signals that S&P Global sees the potential for a future ratings upgrade if NEIU sustains its current progress.

S&P cited NEIU's enrollment and balance-sheet growth as key factors contributing to the improved outlook. The revised outlook reflects the University's continued work to stabilize enrollment, responsibly manage resources, and strengthen its financial reserves while continuing to invest in our students and our mission.

This announcement follows the January 2026 upgrade of NEIU's issuer rating by Moody's Ratings to investment-grade status. Together, these independent assessments provide encouraging evidence of NEIU's improving financial position and institutional stability.

There is still important work ahead, but we are proud of the progress being made and grateful to our faculty, staff, students, community partners and neighbors who continue to support Northeastern Illinois University.

Looking Ahead

As we begin the 2026–27 academic year, we look forward to continuing our partnership with the Hollywood-North Park community and keeping our neighbors informed about news and developments at the University.

We appreciate the community's continued engagement, questions, and partnership, and we look forward to another productive year together.

Today's Board of Trustees meeting, originally scheduled for Thursday, June 11, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at Northeastern Illinois University’s Carruthers Center, has been relocated to Alumni Hall South on NEIU’s Main Campus. The meeting will now begin at 1:30 p.m.

The relocation is necessary due to a ComEd power outage affecting the Carruthers Center and the surrounding Bronzeville community.

Northeastern Illinois University has learned that its submission for a $1.7 million grant through the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) was not selected for funding. The proposed grant would have supported demolition and site stabilization efforts to address ongoing conditions at the Bryn Mawr and El Centro properties while longer-term redevelopment planning continues through the University’s broader master planning process.

NEIU recognizes the importance and urgency of this moment and understands the continued concerns expressed by neighbors and community stakeholders regarding the condition of these properties. While the funding outcome is disappointing, the University remains committed to advancing responsible, long-term solutions and continuing the work necessary to move these efforts forward.

The University continues to actively pursue several near-term and long-term strategies, including:

• Pursuing additional funding opportunities to support near-term property stabilization efforts
• Exploring the viability of a phased demolition approach based on budget availability and annual institutional savings
• Updating market and property assessments to evaluate future redevelopment and disposition opportunities

The University remains committed to ongoing communication with the NEIU community, neighbors, and other stakeholders. NEIU will continue providing updates regarding planning efforts and future developments as additional information becomes available.

We appreciate the continued engagement, partnership, and patience of our community as this important work continues.

Letter of Support

Community Update Regarding NEIU’s Bryn Mawr Properties

Dear NEIU Community,

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) appreciates the continued engagement of community members regarding the Bryn Mawr properties and would like to provide an update following the May 14, 2026 Finance, Buildings, and Grounds Committee meeting of the Board of Trustees.

During the meeting, University leadership provided an overview of strategic activities undertaken over the past two years related to the Bryn Mawr properties and broader campus planning efforts.

The University recognizes the concerns expressed by residents and community stakeholders regarding the current condition of the properties and the pace of redevelopment efforts. NEIU acknowledges that the original acquisition of the Bryn Mawr parcels in 2016 has not yet resulted in the long-term outcomes originally envisioned. Addressing these properties remains a priority for the institution.

As shared during the Board meeting, the University has engaged in ongoing coordination with community stakeholders, elected officials, state agencies, and neighborhood organizations throughout 2025 and 2026.

In February 2026, the NEIU Board of Trustees approved the University’s 2026–2031 Strategic Plan, which includes the launch of a comprehensive campus master planning process. This effort will evaluate University-owned properties, including the Bryn Mawr parcels, and help establish a clear framework for future use, investment opportunities, and long-term sustainability.

The University also shared several current actions and next steps related to the Bryn Mawr properties, including:

• Submission of a $1.7 million Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) grant request to support demolition and site stabilization efforts
• Continued advocacy for state appropriations and exploration of additional funding opportunities
• Ongoing market and property value assessments to help inform future redevelopment strategies
• Initiation of the University’s broader campus master planning process

The University is actively evaluating viable pathways forward in light of the complexity of planning, funding and additional operational considerations, and is taking a thoughtful and responsible approach to determining and communicating a timeline of next steps.

NEIU remains committed to meaningful community engagement and the long-term stewardship of these properties, and we deeply appreciate the continued input, partnership, and engagement of our neighbors and community stakeholders as this work moves forward.

Dear NEIU Community,

Thank you for sharing your concerns about the condition of the Bryn Mawr properties. We understand the issues raised and recognize that the University’s previous purchase of these properties did not yield the intended outcomes. Addressing these properties is a high priority for the University, and we are actively developing a comprehensive plan to move forward.

As reported on the NEIU Neighbors webpage, on February 19, the Northeastern Illinois University Board of Trustees unanimously approved the University’s new Strategic Plan for 2026–2031. A key component of the plan includes launching a comprehensive, university-wide master planning process. This institutional effort will evaluate and address the physical and technological environments at the Main Campus, El Centro, and Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies, as well as other NEIU properties (Bryn Mawr & El Centro) — resulting in a clear, actionable plan for their future use, improvement, and long-term sustainability, and positioning the University for future investment and redevelopment opportunities.

As it relates to the Bryn Mawr properties, the University is actively analyzing all available options and is committed to identifying a path forward that addresses the properties' current conditions and aligns with long-term institutional and community priorities. We are working toward a solution that ensures these properties are safe, stabilized, and positioned for productive future use. Due to the necessary master planning process, operational considerations, and financial resources that must be secured, providing a precise timeline at this stage would not be responsible or feasible.

We value the continued input of our community. The Board of Trustees and University leadership are aligned in recognizing that NEIU’s properties are a high-priority issue, and we are working diligently to move forward in a thoughtful, strategic, and responsible manner.

We will continue to keep you informed as updates become available.
 

Dear Northeastern Illinois University Neighbors,

I am writing to inform you that Northeastern Illinois University received a report of an alleged sexual assault that occurred over the weekend at The Nest student housing.

University Police were notified and have launched an investigation. At this time, it is believed that the individuals involved are known to one another, that there was no forced entry, and that there is no indication of an ongoing threat to the campus community.

We are taking this seriously and are focused on keeping our campus safe while supporting those affected. Confidential counseling and support services are available to students, faculty, and staff.

Northeastern Neighbors Update – Spring 2026

We hope 2026 has begun well for our University community and neighbors. The Spring semester is now underway at Northeastern Illinois University, and campus is once again filled with energy as students, faculty, and staff return for a new term.

As part of our ongoing commitment to community engagement, we are refreshing this page with the goal of providing quarterly updates to keep our neighbors informed about campus activities, initiatives, and developments. Since the start of the semester, we have continued advancing important planning, advocacy, and infrastructure efforts that support our students while strengthening our connection to the surrounding community.

Throughout the year, Northeastern remains committed to being a thoughtful and engaged neighbor by fostering open communication, supporting local partnerships, and ensuring our campus continues to be a welcoming space for learning, collaboration, and community connection. We appreciate the continued partnership of our neighbors and look forward to sharing updates with you in the months ahead.

We invite you to view recent highlights and updates as we continue working together to keep Northeastern a welcoming and engaged neighbor.

Dear Northeastern Illinois University Community,

I hope you are doing well. I wanted to share an important milestone for Northeastern Illinois University and provide a brief update on our continued work to strengthen student success and opportunity across the communities we serve.

On February 19, the NEIU Board of Trustees unanimously approved the University’s new Strategic Plan for 2026–2031. Under the leadership of President Katrina Bell-Jordan, the plan establishes a forward-looking vision focused on student success, academic excellence, institutional sustainability, and strengthening partnerships that expand opportunity for our students.

A key component of the plan includes launching a comprehensive university-wide master planning process beginning in Fall 2026. This effort will evaluate and strengthen the physical and technological environments across Main Campus, El Centro, and the Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies, ensuring accessibility, sustainability, and equitable access to learning spaces. The planning framework will align with ADA accessibility standards, Universal Design for Learning (UDL), LEED sustainability practices, and modern campus technology standards.

Alongside this strategic planning work, we are seeing encouraging momentum in student success:

• Spring 2026 credit hours reached 49,990, exceeding our target and reflecting a 1% increase over Spring 2025
• Fall-to-Spring retention increased to 80.8%, demonstrating progress in supporting students through advising and financial support services
• NEIU’s six-year graduation rate reached 25.2%, the highest in the University’s history

To further support students, NEIU is implementing several structural improvements, including an interest-free monthly tuition payment plan, expanded academic advising access through a centralized scheduling system, and the development of a One Stop Student Center to streamline admissions, advising, financial assistance, and registration services.

The NEIU Strategic Plan will be made publicly available and will be posted on the website soon. 

These efforts reflect the collective commitment of our faculty, staff, and leadership to ensure that students—particularly first-generation and historically underrepresented students—have the support they need to persist and complete their degrees.

Thank you for your continued partnership and commitment to expanding educational opportunities for Illinois students. Your support plays a vital role in advancing the mission of Northeastern Illinois University and the communities we serve.

Please do not hesitate to reach out if you would like additional information or if we can be of assistance.

Dear Northeastern Illinois University Community,

As we continue shaping Northeastern Illinois University’s next chapter, I want to share an update on the progress of our Strategic Planning process. Thank you again for your participation and feedback during the summer NEIU Strategic Planning Draft Goals Virtual Roundtable. Your insights meaningfully informed the direction of this effort.

Based on the collective feedback gathered from University stakeholder groups, the Core Strategic Planning Team reviewed the input and presented the overarching goals of the plan to the Board of Trustees, which were approved on September 18.

NEIU has now entered the final phase of the Strategic Planning process. Cross-campus teams are currently developing measurable objectives, tactics, and key performance indicators aligned with the approved goals.

The completed Strategic Plan will be presented to the Board of Trustees for review and approval in January 2026, marking an important milestone in advancing NEIU’s mission and long-term vision.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to ongoing collaboration as we shape a thoughtful, forward-looking plan that will guide Northeastern Illinois University’s next chapter of growth and impact. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

Dear Northeastern Illinois University Community,

On behalf of Northeastern Illinois University, it is our honor to invite you to the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony of the Veterans Services Center on Monday, October 6, 2025, at Northeastern Illinois University’s Ronald Williams Library.

This new center reflects NEIU’s commitment to supporting those who have served our nation. It will provide Veterans, active-duty service members, and their families with access to federal and state educational benefits, connections to campus and community resources, and a welcoming environment for fellowship and personal growth.

Your presence at this celebration would underscore the importance of public investment in higher education and the support of Veterans and military-connected students across our state.

Event Details

• Date: Monday, October 6, 2025
• Time: 2:00 – 3:00 p.m. (program begins at 3:00 p.m)
• Location: Northeastern Illinois University’s Ronald Williams Library, 4th Floor – Main Campus, 5500 North St. Louis Avenue, Chicago, IL 

Kindly RSVP by replying to this email. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me via email or at (708) 369-6096.
Thank you for your leadership and dedication to advancing opportunities for Illinois students and Veterans. We hope you can join us for this special occasion.

Construction has begun for Northeastern Illinois University’s new Education Building. The project is expected to be completed by Summer 2027. Designed to achieve LEED certification, the building will serve as the new home for the Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education. This state-of-the-art facility will feature modern classrooms, clinics, labs and conference spaces, providing an enhanced teaching and learning environment for our students and employees.

The new Education Building will incorporate many sustainable features, including a rain garden behind Lot J near The Nest to enhance natural water management. Detention ponds expanded during previous campus development phases will be preserved and a rooftop garden will be situated above the building's Conference Center.

The project prioritizes the preservation of the Main Campus’ most unique features, including the Solitary Oak tree and the Swamp White Oak Savannah ecosystem, which grow along Saint Louis Avenue. Once the building is near completion, new trees and natural landscaping, such as native prairie vegetation, will be prioritized for planting. The University also plans to restore native prairie plants lost in the construction process.

NEIU has earned recognition from the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree Campus for 10 years in a row. As such, the University will continue to develop, value and celebrate our campus. In addition, NEIU is working towards Level 1 Arboretum status, including a curated tree collection.

Northeastern Illinois University has a strong legacy of preparing educators for leadership and service to our city and region, and has looked forward to the construction of the new Education Building for many years. The building signifies University modernization, enhanced teaching and learning and will provide many benefits for the entire NEIU community.

More updates about the project will be shared as the Education Building is constructed.

Dear Northeastern Illinois University Community,

I am excited to share that construction of Northeastern Illinois University’s new Education Building will begin this month, with completion expected by Summer 2027. This state-of-the-art facility will house the Daniel L. Goodwin College of Education, reinforcing our commitment to preparing the next generation of educators. We are grateful for the support of the Illinois Capital Development Board, which is funding and managing the project.

Designed by SmithGroup, the new Education Building will be situated between WTTW Studios and the Physical Education (PE) Building on the main campus. A construction area sketch is attached for reference.

Construction Timeline & Campus Impact

• Week of February 24: Construction crews will mark the perimeter and clear the site.
• Two weeks later: Barrier fencing will be installed, followed by the start of construction.

Impact on Main Campus Access

• Walking paths on the south side of campus will be adjusted, with clear signage indicating detour routes.
• Nearby buildings—including WTTW, NEIU's Childcare Center, the Nest, and the PE Building—may experience intermittent sound disruptions. The University is working closely with our general contractors to minimize disruptions and ensure they occur at appropriate times.

We appreciate your support and patience as we embark on this exciting journey. We would love to keep you updated on our progress and explore opportunities for you to visit the site and participate in our future groundbreaking ceremony event.

Please contact me if you have any questions or require additional information. 

Dear Northeastern Illinois University Community,

Northeastern Illinois University values the feedback of our campus neighbors and is aware of a reported smell from campus construction.

The Illinois Capital Development Board (CBD) is addressing Northeastern Illinois University’s electrical infrastructure by replacing aluminum cables with new copper cabling. The project will be completed in mid-August.

Northeastern is working closely with its vendor, Aggreko, and has been informed that the work zone complies with EPA guidelines and does not emit harmful levels of emissions.

The University will continue to monitor this project to ensure the safety and well-being of the community.

We appreciate your understanding of this critical infrastructure maintenance project.