Northwestern graduation events set for 2026
October 28, 2025
For many Evanston residents, the path to a stable, well-paying career doesn’t require a four-year college degree — it’s about having access, support and opportunity.
A new partnership between Northwestern University, the City of Evanston and the Ryan Family is working to make this path clearer.
The Ryan Family Workforce Development Initiative (RFWDI), originally proposed by the Ryan Family to support social mobility in Evanston, is part of the University’s Community Benefits Agreement (CBA) with the city. Under the CBA, Northwestern has committed to an annual investment of $500,000 in Evanston local workforce development programming and upskilling initiatives.
This commitment is supported by a $10 million gift from the Ryan Family and Ryan Foundation to Northwestern and aims to provide residents with access to education, training and sustainable living-wage career opportunities.
“This initiative is about opening doors of opportunity, especially for people who have talent and drive but haven’t always had access to clear pathways into good-paying, sustainable careers,” said Dave Davis, senior executive director for Northwestern’s Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations (NCR). “By investing in people and partnering with organizations that know this community well, we’re building something that can create lasting impact.”
Building pathways to economic security
The RFWDI focuses on developing career pathways for Evanston high school graduates and Evanston residents seeking opportunities without a four-year college degree. The goal is to increase access to meaningful employment that provides financial security and enables economic growth for Evanston residents while strengthening the local economy.
Jon Kimmel, workforce development specialist in NCR, leads the daily execution of the initiative, which includes coordinating partners, aligning programs, tracking outcomes and ensuring the investment translates into real, measurable opportunities for Evanston residents.
“What makes this initiative stand out is the level of intentional collaboration,” Kimmel said. “Each partner brings a distinct strength, but when those strengths are aligned, we’re building a workforce system that’s far more powerful than any single program could achieve on its own.”
Key partners driving impact
Five organizations are currently working with Northwestern through the RFWDI to deliver training, outreach and career placement support:
Accelerate U at National Louis University
The Accelerate U program provides access to accelerated training in fields such as healthcare and IT. This six-month program offers college credits, wraparound services and connections to local employer partners to help graduates transition into full-time roles with competitive wages.
“This partnership enables us to meet Evanston students where they are and move them quickly into careers and on to a path to a college degree that can change lives,” said Thackston Lundy, vice president of Workforce Pathways-Accelerate U at National Louis University. “Together, we’re reducing barriers and expanding opportunity.”
The Trade Collective
Northwestern financial support helps expand the Trade Collective’s training programs and educational events that focus on skilled trades and professions that do not require four-year college degrees.
Youth Job Center
One of the oldest local nonprofit workforce development organizations in Cook County, Youth Job Center has been helping young people discover careers and training opportunities for over four decades. Northwestern is proud to partner with Youth Job Center to continue providing meaningful and in-demand workforce development assistance to young adults in Evanston.
Evanston Own It
Northwestern provides funding for additional community outreach, events and support as part of Evanston Own It’s work to address youth and community violence in Evanston, allowing the organization to reach more community members and provide additional resources.
“Evanston Own It has partnered with The Ryan Foundation to expand access to trade-based education for individuals ages 18–30, helping them pursue career pathways without the burden of major student loans,” said Pastor Deborah Scott of Ebenezer AME Church. “This initiative aims to equip young adults with proven, practical skills that lead to long-term career success.”
Per Scholas
A national nonprofit focused on developing and training IT professionals from communities who have not traditionally pursued careers in the technology sector, Per Scholas is working with Northwestern on a pilot project to help Evanston residents who are receiving SNAP benefits obtain certifications and full-time employment in IT support and beyond, including wraparound services and additional trainings after completion.
Get involved now
Those considering a career in the skilled trades, technology and healthcare can learn about continuing education and available resources during an event hosted by Evanston Own It from 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday, Dec. 13, at Christ Temple MBC, 1711 Simpson St., Evanston.
If you’re an Evanston resident looking for training or career opportunities, or if you’re a business-owner looking to hire Evanston residents, contact Jon Kimmel for more information.
