Feds award PNW $5.9 million to help first-generation students 

The university’s TRIO programs were awarded $5.9 million in federal funds to support first-generation, low-income and underrepresented students. The funds will be used in the next five years to support the school’s Upward Bound program, which prepares high school students for college admission, Upward Bound Math & Science, which works to strengthen students’ math and science skills, and the Ronald E. McNair Post-baccalaureate Achievement Program, which prepares students for doctoral studies. 

Get ready for winter closing announcements

Notifications of campus closings, severe weather warnings and other announcements will again be available via AlertMe!, the university’s text messaging service. Whenever PNW needs to communicate urgent information about events that affect campus operations, it will send it through AlertMe! The app can be downloaded to Android and Apple phones from the following link: www.pnw.edu/police/alert-me/. In addition, PNW weather-related news will be available through local radio stations and the university’s website.

University launches Center for Justice 

The new Center for Justice and Post-Exoneration Assistance has begun research and advocacy work to seek justice for prisoners who were wrongfully convicted of crimes. Led by Criminal Justice professor Nicky Ali Jackson, the center will work on criminal justice and legal policy reform and serves as a conduit for inmates alleging wrongful conviction. The center is currently investigating two cases, one in Lake County and a second in Marion County. 

PNW building economic development ecosystem for Region

Chancellor Thomas Keon has committed to creating an ecosystem to promote economic development in Northwest Indiana. Writing in The Times of Northwest, Keon said students in the university’s new doctor of Technology applied research program will be key players in innovation opportunities for Northwest Indiana, encouraging the Region’s economic growth.

Nursing professor authors updated textbook 

The latest edition of “Pathophysiology: The Biologic Basis for Disease in Adults and Children” was authored by Julia Rogers, assistant Nursing professor. The ninth edition of the textbook is an updated and comprehensive overview of disease, disease etiology and disease processes. It includes a section on COVID-19. Pathophysiology is the study of what happens inside the body when it isn’t functioning properly due to a condition or disease. Rogers said her textbook helps students understand every disease they will likely see in their careers.

Administrator honored by Times of NW Indiana 

Jacob Lenson, assistant vice chancellor for Campus Planning, Infrastructure and Facilities, was recognized for accomplishments and his potential by The Times Media Co. and Indiana Business magazine’s 20 Under 40 program. Lenson, 37, oversaw construction of the $40 million Nils Bioscience Innovation Building on the Hammond campus. He has also made his mark on other PNW facilities.

Honors college attracts largest, most diverse cohort

More than 330 students are joining the Honors College’s in the 2022-23 academic year. They represent the college’s largest cohort and its most diverse. About 57% of the students self-identify as non-white or multiracial and 48% as first-generation. Approximately 17% are Indiana 21st Century Scholars and almost 10% are international students. PNW also now has one of the most diverse Honors Colleges in Indiana. With over 600 high-achieving undergraduate students, the Honors College offers opportunities for research, leadership engagement, and community service.