Northern Illinois University
Latino Resource Center
Division of Academic Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

Welcome to the Latino Resource Center (LRC) — your new home away from home — and congratulations on making the decision to get a college degree!

Whether you are the first in your family to do so, or you are carrying on a noble tradition, we are here to help you have a fun, safe, socially and academically successful experience at NIU.

We understand the unique challenges that Latino students face when they attend a university. We also know that within each challenge lies an opportunity for new growth and development that will give you a glimpse of your true potential.

Research confirms that when Latino students connect with other Latinos and experience an environment where they feel culturally comfortable and understood, they excel. That’s the environment we seek to create for you and together with all Latino students at NIU.

As the director of the LRC, please accept my personal invitation for you to visit us at the center. You will find friendly faces, receive a warm welcome, and discover pathways to new relationships, experiences and adventures that will most likely become pivotal in your education, career and life.

Our goals are threefold: First, to attract the best and brightest Latino students, and that includes you; second, to provide the support you need to keep persisting all the way to obtain your degree, and finally, to help you find your place in the world where you will put to good use the knowledge you gained here, fulfill your life dreams and make a difference in the world.

The way we meet our goals is by providing an extensive array of exciting events, practical programs and relevant resources for you. Key among them are helping you obtain financial aid, connecting you to peer mentoring and tutoring for tough classes, organizing events to promote and celebrate Latino culture, facilitating internships and community service projects and introducing you to student organizations and other opportunities to develop your leadership and career skills. 

The journey begins when you come in to visit us. The LRC staff is expecting you, and I’ll be waiting for you.

Luis Santos-Rivas, M.A.

Director, Latino Resource Center