Memorials and Celebration of Life at Alice Millar & Jeanne Vail Chapels
We extend our sincere condolences to you, your family, and loved ones during this difficult time.
Alice Millar Chapel & Jeanne Vail Chapel provide meaningful spaces for memorial services, funeral services, and celebration of life. Located on Northwestern University's Evanston campus, the chapels offer peaceful settings to gather with family, friends, colleagues, and community members in remembrance and reflection.
Our team is available to assist with scheduling, facility logistics, and planning support throughout the reservation process to help create a respectful and memorable service.
Our Chapels
Alice Millar Chapel
Alice Millar Chapel provides a grand and distinctive setting for memorial services and celebration of life, accommodating up to 700 guests. Known for for its historic architecture and vibrant stained-glass windows. the Chapel offers a beautiful and reflective environment for honoring loved ones.
Jeanne Vail Chapel
Jeanne Vail Chapel offers provides a more intimate and traditional setting, accommodating approximately 125 guests. Connected to the Alice Millar Chapel, this space provides a warm and welcoming atmosphere for family and friends to gather in remembrance.
Scheduling
Memorial services and celebration of life are booked based on chapel and staffing, and University operations.
Services are generally scheduled during the following times:
Saturdays & Sundays
- 12:00pm (Chapel reserved 11:30am - 1:30pm)
- 3:00pm (Chapel reserved 2:30pm - 4:30pm)
- 6:00pm (Chapel reserved 5:30pm - 7:30pm)
Weekday reservations may ne available on a limited basis. Please contact our office for additional information.
Each reservation includes a 2-hour time block, beginning 30 minutes prior to the service start time. This allows time for preparation, the memorial service or celebration of life, and post-service greetings.
All event activities, including setup, deliveries, rehearsals, sound checks, photography, and cleanup, must take place within the reserved time period.
Additional time may be requested based on availability and may require an additional fee.
Please note that Univeristy events take priority and may impact space availability. Availability may also be limited during University holidays, academic breaks, commencement activities, and major campus events.
Eligibility
Memorial service reservations are available to both affiliated and non-affiliated clients.
Discounted rates are available to members of the Northwestern Univeristy community, including:
- Current Northwestern students
- Northwestern alumni
- Current Northwestern faculty, staff, and administrators
- Current and former Northwestern University Board of Trustees members
- Immediate family members of eligible Northwestern affiliates
Documentation is required to confirm eligibility for discounted rats. Accepted forms include a Northwestern email address, a copy of a University diploma, or confirmation from the Office of Alumni Relations and Development.
Memorial Rental Rates
Chapel Rental Fees
|
|
Current NU Students |
NU Community (Alumni, Staff, & Faculty) |
External (Non-NU Community) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Alice Millar Chapel |
No Charge |
$1,500 |
$2,000 |
|
Jeanne Vail Chapel |
No Charge |
$1,000 |
$1,500 |
Reception & Gathering Spaces
|
|
Current NU Students |
NU Community (Alumni, Staff, & Faculty) |
External (Non-NU Community) |
|---|---|---|---|
|
Parkes Reception Hall 122 |
No Charge |
$300/hr |
$400/hr |
|
Parkes Social Lounge 120 |
No Charge |
$200/hr |
$200/hr |
|
Inner Courtyard |
No Charge |
$200/hr |
$200/hr |
Rates are subject to change. Additional fees may apply for extended time, staffing, equipment rentals, or other services requested
Deposit & Payment
A non-refundable $300 deposit is required to for all reservations and is due upon the signing of the Memorial Service Rental Agreement.
Final charges, including and additional services for fees will be invoiced following the event.
Officiants & Musicians
Families are responsible for arranging their own officiant, celebrant, clergy member, musicians, speakers, and other participants
Request for the use of the chapel piano or organ must be arranged in advance.
Reception & Gathering Spaces
Families may reserve additional spaces for reception, luncheons, or gatherings following a memorial service, subject to availability.
Available spaces include:
- Parkes Reception Hall 122
- Parkes Social Lounge 120
- Courtyard
Additional rental fees may apply.
Parking
Campus parking, street parking, and nearby public parking garages are available for guests.
Additional parking information and recommendations will be provided during the planning process.
Facility Policies
Food & Beverages
- Food and beverages are not permitted inside Alice Millar Chapel or Jeanne Vail Chapel.
- Alcohol is not permitted within chapel facilities.
Decorations
- Flowers and memorial displays are welcome.
- Decorations may not be attached to chapel pews, walls, or furnishings.
- Candles, open flames, and special effects require prior approval.
Music
- Rehearsals and sound checks must be scheduled in advance.
Personal Property
- Religious & Spiritual Life and Northwestern University are not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged personal property brought to the facility.
Cleanup
- Families and vendors are responsible for removing all personal belongings, flowers, decorations, and event materials at the conclusion of the reservation.
- Additional charges may apply for excessive cleanup, damage, or materials left behind.
Insurance
Event liability insurance is required. Additional information regarding insurance requirements will be provided during the reservation process.
Agreement & Communication
Reservations are finalized upon receipt of
- A signed Memorial Service Rental Agreement
- Any required deposit or fees on our payment page
- Necessary documentation
Families are asked to provide final event details no later than 21 days prior to the service date.
A member of the Religious & Spiritual Life team will serve as your primary point of contact throughout the planning process.