Giving Societies highlights donors at all levels of giving, showing their commitment to the University and its mission to provide a barrier-breaking education that will benefit them and their families for the future. 

Cumulative Giving Recognition 

The President's Circle

Cumulative-based and measures total giving. Members have the opportunity to join the University president for dinner and to receive other exclusive invitations. In addition, members qualify for the University's highest recognition awarded to benefactors of the institution: The Wentworth Prize. This prize is given by the NEIU Foundation and recognizes the significant investment made by donors in support of the University's Mission.  

Gold ($1M+)
Silver ($500,000-$999,999)
Bronze ($100,000-$499,999)

Annual Giving Recognition

The Wentworth Society

Builds upon the University's history as an important educational institution within the City of Chicago. It is named for the founding superintendent of the Cook County Normal School, and the dates associated with it reflect significant milestones in Northeastern's history. Membership in this society is based on annual giving, and members receive unique benefits including exclusive event invitations to learn about the University's new initiatives. 

1867 Founding as Cook County Normal School in Blue Island ($50,000-$99,999)
1949 Named Chicago Teachers College North ($25,000-$49,999)
1967 Named Northeastern Illinois State College ($10,000-$24,999)
1971 Gained Status as a University ($5,000-$9,999)

The Leader Society

The Leader Society is Northeastern's foundational society and is based on annual giving. The name reflects the University's mission of "preparing a diverse community of students for leadership and service."

Visionary ($2,500-$4,999)
Champion ($1,000-$2,499)
Achiever ($500-$999)
Builder ($100-$499)

The Founders Society

Individuals who remember Northeastern in their wills and estate plans and notify us of their bequests become members of the Founders Society. No specific amount of money is required. Gifts can be made through assets including life insurance, retirement benefits, stock holdings and more. Members of the Founders Society are invited to exclusive events and activities.