Since its founding over 53 years ago, National University (NU) has nurtured deep connections to the San Diego community, providing accessible and flexible education tailored to the unique needs of active-duty service members, Veterans, and working adults. Established in 1971 by retired U.S. Navy Captain Dr. David Chigos, NU was created to fill an educational void for military-affiliated and non-traditional students who needed a university that understood their challenges. What began in San Diego as a regional institution has grown to be one of the largest private, nonprofit universities in the United States, recognized as both a Minority Serving Institution (MSI) and a Hispanic Serving Institution (HSI).
Today, NU’s reach extends nationwide, with over 50,000 degree-seeking students and 80,000 workforce and professional development learners each year. The university has a growing number of alumni with more than 240,000 graduates, many of whom have gone on to successful careers in fields such as business, education, healthcare, cybersecurity, law, and criminal justice.
President and CEO Dr. Mark D. Milliron emphasizes NU’s commitment to a holistic approach to education, sharing with GB Magazine, “We understand how to meet non-traditional students where they are and get them on the pathway to possibilities personally and professionally. We are committed to helping them change their lives, improve the future of their families, and positively impact their communities.”
This philosophy advances NU’s commitment to Whole Human Education by providing financial, emotional, career, and family support services to ensure that non-traditional students can thrive despite the complexities of work, family, and life responsibilities. Most NU students are working adults, with families and include a significant number of first-generation college students. Approximately two-thirds of NU students and graduates identify as Black, Indigenous, or people of color, and 50% of undergraduates are military-affiliated. NU has been designated a Gold status Military Friendly School and a Top 10 Military Friendly Spouse School for the year 2024 by Military Friendly.
In July, more than 600 prestigious members of the San Diego community gathered on the deck of the USS Midway Museum to celebrate the launch of the National University Foundation, an initiative that aims to raise funds to help students transform their lives and achieve their dreams. The Foundation focuses on three main areas: scholarships for non-traditional, working, and military students; targeted academic programs that align with high-growth industries; and funding for innovative pilot programs designed to address the challenges faced by NU’s diverse student population.
“Following the success of this year’s event, the next National University Foundation Gala is scheduled for September 12, 2025, once again aboard the USS Midway, “said Dr. Nancy Rohland-Heinrich, executive vice president of community engagement at National University. “This annual event will continue to highlight the university’s ongoing legacy to support its students, with funds raised benefiting scholarships and programs designed to impact those who need it most.”
As National University embarks on its next chapter, it remains deeply committed to its founding mission. With the support of the NU Foundation, the university is set to continue a legacy of impact for students, families, and communities nationwide.
For more information on the NU Foundation and ways to support, visit www.nu.edu/foundation.
