North Central College graduates hugging.

Inspire Campaign

Give Now

From our founding in 1861, North Central was one of the few colleges welcoming women students. With the inauguration of the College’s first woman president, Dr. Anita Thomas, a new effort has begun to acknowledge and give credit to the women in our lives who have provided inspiration. Inspire is just such an initiative to help celebrate the women who encourage, support and impact our lives.

Honor a woman who has made a difference in your life

Through your generous gift, any woman can be honored: moms, grandmothers, sisters, daughters, aunts, friends, mentors, colleagues, leaders, advocates, teachers, and caregivers are only a few possibilities. They can be women you know, or women you wish you had the opportunity to meet. (Although there are many inspirational women right here at North Central, the women honored do not need to be affiliated with the College.)

Gifts to Inspire will support the greatest needs of all of our students throughout campus and will help ensure that they become curious, engaged, ethical, and purposeful citizens and leaders. 

More About the NCC Fund

“This institution is you, and this institution is for you. My doors are always open. I want to hear from you and learn with you. My leadership will only be as strong as we are when we live out our mission together—to be a diverse community of learners.”  

Dr. Anita Jones Thomas, 11th President of North Central College, speaking directly to students during her Investiture Ceremony, held on November 11, 2023

How You Can Help

Spread the word! In addition to making a gift in honor of a woman (or women) in your life, now’s the perfect time to reach out to your classmates, other alumni, parents and friends of North Central to invite them to participate and make a gift.

Two North Central College students at Commencement.

Going Back to See How to Move Ahead

November 11 is a significant day in the history of North Central College. It is recognized as North Central’s Founders Day. November 11, 1861, Plainfield College opened its doors for the first official day of classes. The institution was renamed North-Western College in 1864 and became North Central College in 1926.

In 1861, nearly two dozen private colleges and universities operated in Illinois. Most were church-affiliated and intended for men only. There were 40 students on the College’s first day – both men and women.

More About North Central College's History

The first graduating class of North Central College.

For more information:  

Contact Maria Caselli ’01/M’ֹ08, Director of the North Central College Fund 
macaselli@noctrl.edu or 630-637-5217