Liesl Downey, B.A., Vice President of Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of the NEIU Foundation
Institutional Advancement is responsible for strengthening the University through strategic initiatives that foster awareness, understanding and support for the University through fundraising and alumni outreach programs, events, and campaigns. This is executed by the Division’s Offices of Alumni Relations, Development and Advancement Services, in partnership with University Leadership and the Office of Marketing and Communication. It also directs the operations of the Northeastern Illinois University Foundation in collaboration with the Foundation’s Board of Directors to raise private monetary support for scholarships, other student aid, University strategic funding priorities, and growing the University’s endowment.
Alumni Relations / Alumni Association (NEIUAA)
Alumni Relations hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year to engage alumni with the University, including but not limited to social gatherings at University locations and throughout Chicago; academic lectures; community service activities; volunteer opportunities; and mentoring and professional development programs. The NEIUAA is more than 87,000 strong with members throughout the United States and around the world. The NEIUAA offers a five-level membership program to alumni and friends of the University, with the fully tax-deductible annual membership fee supporting programs throughout the year as well as student scholarships for internship and mentorship experiences. Current NEIU students may engage with the NEIUAA through a variety of programs, including student memberships, internship scholarships, and an alumni/student mentorship program.
Development / NEIU Foundation (NEIUF)
The NEIU Foundation, through the Office of Development, coordinates the University’s efforts to raise philanthropic support for strategic priorities through private sources. This encompasses annual and principal giving, corporate and foundation relations, planned giving, development communications, and stewardship programs. Development also provides counsel for special fundraising efforts across university units and student groups. The help of faculty, staff, students and volunteers is crucial as Development and the Foundation communicate the impact of philanthropic support and inspire alumni and friends with opportunities to enrich and grow Northeastern’s capacity for excellence.