About

History

From a Bold Dream to a University
In 1932, a group of educators and community leaders led by Nicolas N. Nicolas, Maximo A. Caday, Cresencio J. Barangan, Angel A. Albano, Manuela Romero, and Rufina S. Mariano pooled their savings and resources to establish Northwestern Academy, Inc., the first private, non-sectarian educational institution in Ilocos Norte.

Driven by the belief that education should be accessible to all, the founders opened their doors to young people from different backgrounds, including those who faced financial barriers to education. From its beginnings, Northwestern carried the spirit of Fiat Lux, or “Let there be light,” a guiding principle that continues to define the institution.

Growing Through the Years
When World War II reached the Philippines in 1941, Northwestern’s operations were suspended during the Japanese occupation. After the war, the institution reopened and entered a period of renewed growth, including the construction of its first 12-room building.
In 1949, Northwestern Academy became Northwestern College, expanding its academic programs and facilities. The acquisition of a nine-hectare property and the construction of the Science and Engineering Building marked important steps toward the founders’ dream of establishing a university.

In 1982, fifty years after its founding, Ben A. Nicolas became President and Chairman of the Board of Directors, succeeding his father, Nicolas N. Nicolas, who had served as Chairman for fifty years. Under his leadership, Northwestern pursued significant institutional reforms, embraced emerging technologies, and strengthened its commitment to quality education. Among the notable developments was the opening of the Computer Center, recognized at the time as the first of its kind north of Metro Manila.

The institution also began pursuing voluntary accreditation, with several academic programs subsequently achieving accredited status.

Becoming Northwestern University
On November 3, 1992, Northwestern College achieved a defining milestone when it was granted university status, becoming Northwestern University. 

The University entered the new millennium with a stronger focus on academic excellence, research, community engagement, innovation, and international collaboration. It earned ISO certification, received Deregulated Status from the Commission on Higher Education in 2003, and established international partnerships, including a sisterhood relationship with Sangmyung University in South Korea.

From a modest academy founded by a determined group of educators, Northwestern has grown into a progressive university serving generations of learners in Ilocos Norte and beyond.

The light kindled in 1932 continues to shine.