Northeastern Illinois University Achieves Investment-Grade Credit Rating

On January 16, 2026, Northeastern Illinois University (NEIU) announced a significant upgrade to its credit rating, moving from Ba1 to Baa3 by Moody's Ratings. This advancement places the university firmly within the investment-grade status, reflecting rigorous fiscal management and promising growth outlook. The new rating was officially released on January 9, 2026, accompanied by a stable outlook, which adds another layer of assurance regarding the university's fiscal future.

This elevation to investment-grade rating not only enhances NEIU's stature within the higher education landscape but also facilitates better access to capital markets, ultimately enabling the university to negotiate more favorable borrowing terms. During the Board of Trustees meeting on January 15, the benefits of this upgrade were underscored, highlighting an increased financial flexibility that would support long-term institutional stability.

Several factors led to this momentous rating change. Moody's cited the university's strategic investments designed to bolster enrollment numbers, careful expense management, consistent support from the State of Illinois, and overall stable operational performance. The university's well-defined capital plans and manageable debt levels also played a pivotal role in this upgrade. Moreover, the lack of immediate borrowing needs positioned NEIU favorably in the eyes of the credit rating agency.

Katrina E. Bell-Jordan, the university president, celebrated this milestone, stating, “A credit rating is an independent assessment of an institution's overall financial health.” She went on to express how the achievement demonstrates the university's commitment to sustainable growth and opportunity expansion for future generations.

Beni Ortiz, the Vice President for Finance and Administration and Chief Financial Officer, expressed his satisfaction with the upgrade, noting it confirms the effective measures taken to oversee expenses meticulously. Ortiz believes that this advancement leaves NEIU in a robust position for continued progress.

Moody's has also identified potential pathways for further rating upgrades. These include continued improvements in NEIU's operating performance, positive trends in student enrollment, and a steady increase in net tuition revenue. Maintaining strong liquidity and robust balance sheet levels will also be critical in ensuring sustained financial health.

“The collective efforts of our faculty, staff, stewards, and partners have been instrumental in establishing a strong financial foundation,” said Bell-Jordan. “Their dedication ensures that NEIU will continue to serve both our students and the broader Chicago community effectively, now and into the future.”

Northeastern Illinois University has a rich history, established in 1867 and serving as a Minority-Serving Institution and the oldest four-year public Hispanic-Serving Institution in the Midwest. With more than 40 undergraduate and over 50 graduate programs, NEIU plays a crucial role in the educational landscape of Chicago. Its main campus spans 67 acres in a vibrant residential area on the Northwest Side, with additional facilities like El Centro and the Jacob H. Carruthers Center for Inner City Studies enhancing its commitment to community-oriented education.

With this upgrade, Northeastern Illinois University is not just projected to thrive financially but is poised to set an example of responsible governance, fiscal integrity, and community service within the education sector. The university's vision remains clear as it aspires to uphold its mission while expanding opportunities for the generations to come.