Media Advisory: National Louis University Celebrates Those Who Serve in New Community Heroes Program

Chicago-based private, non-profit university reaches out to emergency first responders, military veterans, and law enforcement personnel to express gratitude for their selfless service

(CHICAGO: September 21, 2021) – This Thursday, September 23, staff members of National Louis University (NLU) will be bringing and sharing lunch with police officers stationed at 3315 W Ogden Avenue. NLU is reaching out to show appreciation to the public servants and medical professionals who put themselves at risk each day for the wellbeing of their communities. During a global pandemic, escalating climate instability, and sharpening social and racial tensions, NLU believes it is vitally important to ensure that those who serve feel appreciated and respected. 

What: NLU Community Heroes Lunch with Chicago Police Officers

When: 11 a.m. CST, Thursday, September 23, 2021

Where: Chicago Police Department Station, 3315 West Ogden Avenue

Who: Police officers, NLU staff members, members of the media

“National Louis University has a passionate faculty and staff who really care about positively impacting the communities,” said Rick Yaconis, Vice President of Marketing.  “To reinforce our commitment to strengthening the communities that are the bedrock of our cities and our country, we want to give back through the NLU Community Heroes program, which provides scholarships to our community heroes, their spouses, and dependents. This includes military veterans and active duty, law enforcement personnel, licensed patient care workers, and fire fighters, EMT’s and paramedics,” he added.

Recently, NLU visited the Chicago Fire Department Engine 119 to share lunch with Chicago firefighters as part of its Community Heroes outreach. When asked about the most satisfying feature of his job, Frank Bertog, the Battalion Chief, stated that "The most rewarding part of our job is helping people and saving lives. Whether it's a fire or other emergency, it's rewarding to serve others."

National Louis believes in showing appreciation for the many heroes of our communities who work tirelessly to keep the public safe. The outreach efforts are part of a new program at NLU offering a scholarship valued at 15% of total tuition for first responders and their families, so that they may work towards their chosen degree without financial worries.

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About National Louis University: National Louis is a nonprofit, non-denominational university focused on preparing the diverse workforce of tomorrow and widening access to quality educational and career opportunities for all learners. NLU offers bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in the fields of education, business, computer science and information technology, management, human services, social work, counseling, public policy, culinary, hospitality and other fields in career and professional development. NLU serves approximately 10,000 students annually at locations in Illinois and Florida as well as online. Visit nl.edu for more info.