About ETHS

Our Mission

We strive to enhance learning opportunities for Northwestern University and Evanston Township High School (ETHS) students through bridging collaborative partnership opportunities.

Our Work

The Partnership Office connects resources to enhance the educational experience of students at both Northwestern University and Evanston Township High School (ETHS). The ideas for partnerships stem from students, parents, staff, administration, teachers, faculty, and community members.

The Partnership Office grows connections through synergistic, scalable and sustainable opportunities. Our work is diverse, ranging from academics, athletics, health and wellness, identity and social consciousness, college and career education, cultural events, mentoring, arts, and community engagement.

Our Support

The Partnership Office is supported by Northwestern’s Neighborhood and Community Relations and the Office of Community Education Partnerships in the School of Education and Social Policy. The office was established in 2012 to identify collaborative opportunities for students in the Evanston community.

FAQs

What is the main goal of the NU/ETHS Partnership?

The partnership fosters a two-way collaboration where ETHS and Northwestern work together to support student learning, community connection, and shared goals. ETHS students explore new opportunities for growth, while Northwestern students, staff, and faculty learn alongside them—building relationships, exchanging ideas, and contributing to programs that benefit both educational institutions.

What types of programs are offered, and who participates?

Programs range from college prep (e.g., AVID, Bienestar FGLI Mentoring) and STEM enrichment (e.g., WiSTEM, STEAM DTI) to leadership and identity development (e.g., Black Men Lead, Social Consciousness Series). Most are tailored to ETHS students, with some involving Northwestern student mentors or staff collaborators from both ETHS and Northwestern.

How does this partnership benefit ETHS students directly?

ETHS students take part in academic enrichment, mentorship, early college exposure, and hands-on learning opportunities that support their growth in high school. These programs also create space for students to explore their interests, reflect on their identities, and build confidence in who they are and where they’re headed.

What impact has the partnership had so far?

Over 100 collaborations have been established, many of which serve hundreds of students annually. Its impact is seen not only in participation numbers but also in the feedback, reflections, and relationships shared by students, educators, and community members involved.

How can ETHS students, staff, or community members get involved?

Please contact NU/ETHS partnership coordinator Hailey Cox at haileycox@northwestern.edu or stop by the partnership office inside ETHS in H107.

How can Northwestern students, staff, or faculty get involved?

If you are interested in getting involved, please contact NU/ETHS partnership coordinator Hailey Cox at haileycox@northwestern.edu. You can also fill out this form if you are interested in hearing about volunteer opportunities with Evanston schools.

Can the NU/ETHS partnership office help ETHS students get into Northwestern?

The partnership has no connection to Northwestern admissions. The office exists as a liaison between the university and the high school in an effort to share resources and opportunities. Involvement with our programs may or may not affect an applicant’s likelihood of getting into Northwestern. If you are interested in applying to Northwestern, please contact the Northwestern admissions office or reach out to College & Career Services at ETHS.

How is your office connected to Northwestern?

The NU/ETHS partnership office is part of the Office of Community Education Partnerships (OCEP), which is located under the School of Education & Social Policy (SESP) at Northwestern.

Annual Report

The ETHS Partnership Office Annual Report showcases how Northwestern and ETHS work together to create meaningful opportunities in academics, arts, STEM, mentorship, and community engagement. It highlights the programs, collaborations, and impact these initiatives had on students and educators over the past year.

Download The 2022-2023 Report

Stay up to date on the Partnership Office comings and goings.

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