Northwestern Neighborhood and Community Relations

05/28/2026

What an exciting and impactful evening yesterday at the Ryan Field Press Event held at Welsh-Ryan Arena!

Northwestern University and the Ryan Family continue to demonstrate what it truly means to invest in community — not just through words, but through meaningful action and long-term commitments. Yesterday’s announcements highlighted an incredible vision for the future of the new Ryan Field, including commitments to provide opportunities and access for local schools, youth sports programs, organizations, and the surrounding community.

One of the major highlights of the event was the announcement that the historic Evanston vs. New Trier football rivalry game will be played at the new Ryan Field this fall — marking the first high school football game ever played in the new stadium. In addition, Northwestern announced future rent-free opportunities for local youth sports tournaments and community events as part of its ongoing commitment to reinvest in Evanston and neighboring communities.

The speakers did an outstanding job articulating the broader vision of the new Ryan Field as more than just a stadium, but as a year-round community asset designed to create memorable experiences and opportunities for people of all ages.

Special recognition to Pat Ryan Jr. for his continued leadership and passion around ensuring that the community becomes the “second anchor tenant” of the new Ryan Field — a vision that continues to reshape what town-gown partnership and community investment can truly look like.

It’s inspiring to witness the intentional efforts being made to ensure that local residents, schools, student-athletes, and community organizations are not only included, but prioritized in the future of this transformational project.

The future of Ryan Field is about much more than football — it’s about community, access, partnership, opportunity, and impact.

https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/high-school/football/2026/05/26/high-school-football-evanston-vs-new-trier-northwestern-ryan-field/90260877007/?utm_source=taboola&utm_medium=deeperdive&utm_campaign=oc

Go ’Cats and Go Evanston!!!

Evanston High School holds a 57-54-6 all-time lead over New Trier. The rivals will face off at Northwestern's brand-new Ryan Field in 2026.

05/24/2026

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/1Gx8nXm7rx/

05/24/2026

National Champs 🏆

05/23/2026

Go 'Cats💜🖤💜🖤

05/22/2026

Excitement is building in Evanston as Northwestern Wildcats women's lacrosse takes the field today in the 2026 NCAA Lacrosse Final Four!

What an incredible moment for our student-athletes, coaches, alumni, fans, and the entire Evanston community. Hosting the tournament here in Evanston makes this experience even more special — showcasing not only elite collegiate athletics, but also the energy, hospitality, and pride of our city and campus community.

This is more than just a game — it’s an opportunity to be part of history. The atmosphere, the passion, and the national spotlight on Evanston make this a moment we will remember for years to come.
If you’re able, come out and support the Wildcats today as they compete on one of the biggest stages in college athletics. Let’s pack the stands, represent Evanston proudly, and show the country what the Wildcat community is all about.

Good luck to the Wildcats — and congratulations on an incredible season and another Final Four appearance!

05/22/2026

Great opportunity to support the Wildcats and be a part of history!

Go 'Cats

05/19/2026

We are excited to announce the date/details of the 2026 Community Movie Night!

Northwestern Athletics and Recreation and Northwestern University's Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations invite guests to attend a free showing of ...

05/13/2026

Today is the day!

Cohen Lawn is now complete, featuring an outdoor patio and lawn, a rooftop patio, Kahn Pavilion and Luna’s Pub & Grill, and will be celebrated on May 13 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

05/12/2026

https://zoiriemedia.pixieset.com/2026anchorgrantsspringsummit/

Photo collection by ZoIrie Media

04/26/2026

As Earth Week is coming to an end, we're reflecting on the power of partnership, purpose, and community-driven impact.

The Sustainable Communities Grant Program was created through a shared vision between Tina Vaughn of UL Research Institutes (ULRI) and UL Standards & Engagement (ULSE) and EL Da' Sheon Nix of Northwestern's Office of Neighborhood and Community Relations (NCR). Rooted in a commitment to environmental stewardship and community empowerment, the program was designed to support local organizations advancing sustainability, equity, and long-term resilience across the Evanston and Skokie communities.

By investing in grassroots efforts, the grant program aims to meet communities where they are—uplifting innovative ideas, expanding access to resources, and fostering collaborative solutions to some of our most pressing environmental challenges.

We’re proud that Climate Action Evanston is among the inaugural grantees, supported for their impactful Litter League program—an initiative that turns environmental cleanup into a fun, team-based experience while raising awareness about waste reduction and community responsibility.

In recognition of Earth Day this week, staff from Northwestern University's Operations Department and ULRI and ULSE had the opportunity to step onto the field and participate in a Litter League game alongside more than 60 dedicated volunteers. Together, we removed over 130 pounds of trash from downtown Evanston and surrounding areas—a tangible reminder of what collective action can accomplish.

This is what sustainability looks like in action: partnership, participation, and progress.

Let’s keep building, investing, and showing up—for our communities and our planet.