#United States #Chicago #Northeastern Illinois University #U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs #Veterans Services Center

Northeastern Illinois University Launches New Veterans Service Center

Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) is thrilled to announce the upcoming inauguration of its Veterans Service Center, located on its Main Campus in Chicago. This center is designed to be a comprehensive support hub for active military personnel, veterans, and their families. It is scheduled to host an invitation-only ribbon-cutting ceremony on October 6, 2025, a date marked with significance for the University community.

Purpose and Vision

The primary objective of the Veterans Service Center is to facilitate a seamless transition for military members into academic life by providing access to essential resources. This includes assistance with benefits available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, financial aid, academic advising tailored to individual needs, and opportunities to connect with fellow veterans and active-duty students. NEIU President Katrina E. Bell-Jordan underscored the center's mission: "The new Veterans Services Center will serve as a welcoming, purpose-driven space that empowers student veterans with the resources, guidance, and community they need to thrive academically and pursue meaningful careers."

Funding and Support

The center has been partly funded by a generous $145,000 federal grant from the Congressional Directed Spending program, thanks to the advocacy of U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth. Senator Duckworth emphasized the importance of congressional support in providing funding for initiatives that directly benefit local communities, noting, "Northeastern helps veterans apply for federal and Illinois veteran benefits, which include several grants and scholarships." Such support is crucial for veterans as they navigate their educational journeys.

Services Offered

The Veterans Service Center is set to provide a suite of services explicitly designed for currently enrolled veterans and their dependents, as well as prospective students considering furthering their education at NEIU. Among the available resources are:

• - Assistance with applications for the Illinois Veterans Grant (IVG), Illinois National Guard Grant (ING), and MIA/POW Scholarship.
• - Customized academic advising to align educational paths with veterans' career aspirations.
• - Networking opportunities with other veterans to foster a sense of community and support.

The center will endeavor to serve as a bridge between the University and external resources that can aid veterans in their college experience, ensuring they have the tools needed for success.

Community Impact

Josh Sumner, Executive Director of Facilities Management at NEIU, expressed enthusiasm about the new center's role, stating, "We are excited to bring the Veterans Services Center to life to support members of the Northeastern community who have given so much to our country. We hope that this space will provide a comforting and useful meeting space for these vital members of our community."

Event Details

Opening Ceremony

• - When: Monday, October 6, 2025, from 2 - 6 p.m.
• - Where: Northeastern Illinois University Main Campus, Ronald Williams Library, 4th Floor, 5500 North St. Louis Avenue, Chicago, Illinois 60625
• - Parking: Available in the on-campus parking facility.
• - RSVP: Media representatives need to RSVP by contacting Donielle Alicea at [email protected] by October 3, 2025.

Expected Speakers

The event will feature notable speakers, including:

• - Katrina E. Bell-Jordan, President of NEIU
• - R. Shayne Cofer, Interim Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs
• - Rahshida Walker, Registrar
• - J. Todd Phillips, Chair of the Board of Trustees
• - Alderman Gilbert Villegas, 36th Ward, City of Chicago

About Northeastern Illinois University

Founded in 1867, Northeastern Illinois University has evolved into a pivotal educational institution, offering over 40 undergraduate and more than 50 graduate programs. The University, recognized as a Minority-Serving Institution and the longest-standing four-year public Hispanic-Serving Institution in the Midwest, is committed to serving its diverse community and fostering an inclusive educational environment. With additional campuses spread across the Chicagoland area, NEIU continues to be a crucial player in the higher education landscape in Illinois.

In conclusion, the Veterans Service Center at Northeastern Illinois University represents a significant step forward in supporting those who have served in the military. By providing tailored resources and a strong community, NEIU is dedicated to enhancing the educational experience and future success of its veteran students.