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.

Seal

The Northwestern University Seal reflects the University’s heritage, mission, and enduring commitment to education.
The ten scallops represent the ten original incorporators of Northwestern University, whose shared vision and dedication laid the foundation for an institution committed to providing quality education to the people of Ilocos Norte.
The maroon symbolizes their dedication, sincerity, and passion in building an institution grounded in academic freedom and a lasting educational legacy. The golden yellow represents the quality of education Northwestern strives to provide, nurturing growth in knowledge, wisdom, and character. The book symbolizes knowledge, the foundation of learning and intellectual growth.
At the center of the seal is the light, representing the recognition of God as the source of wisdom, goodness, and love. It embodies the University’s founding mission of Fiat Lux, “Let there be light.”
Through generations, this light has come to represent Northwestern’s commitment to providing enlightenment, guidance, and direction, empowering learners to overcome ignorance, pursue knowledge, and develop their full potential.

Fiat Lux

Fiat Lux — Let there be light.
At Northwestern University, Fiat Lux embodies a commitment to knowledge, wisdom, and purposeful action. It speaks to the University’s aspiration to illuminate possibilities, encourage thoughtful inquiry, and empower people to see beyond limitations.
The light also reflects God as the source of wisdom, goodness, and love, expressing the faith that remains part of Northwestern’s identity.
Fiat Lux is an enduring expression of what Northwestern seeks to bring into the world: light that enlightens the mind, guides the heart, and inspires action.

Owl

A Symbol of Wisdom
The owl is an enduring symbol of Northwestern University, representing wisdom, discernment, and the pursuit of knowledge.
Known for its keen vision and heightened awareness, the owl reflects the ability to perceive beyond what is immediately visible. At Northwestern, it represents the development of learners who are thoughtful, perceptive, and capable of making informed choices in a changing world.
The owl embodies the University’s aspiration to draw out the best in every learner through education, encouraging intellectual curiosity, sound judgment, and a lifelong pursuit of learning.
The owl reminds us to see clearly, think deeply, and learn continually.

Hymn

The Northwestern University Hymn, composed by Fr. Ian Rabago, expresses the pride, unity, and shared commitment of the Northwestern community.
Through its words, the hymn celebrates Northwestern as a place of learning, character, service, and love for others. It brings together students, faculty, alumni, and the wider University community in a shared expression of belonging and devotion to the institution.
Sung during academic and university occasions, the hymn continues to connect generations of Northwesternians to the values and ideals that define the University.

I
Northwestern seat of wisdom
In unity we all come
Your name we acclaim today
With pride in our hearts we say
Dearest Northwestern,
Beacon of light and learning
Let there be light, torch of eternal yearning.

Refrain:
Fiat Lux, Fiat Lux
Forever in our midst
We join together,

II
Cast your shadow on us
Your flaming virtue always last
Keep us in truth and grace
Your valiant sons embrace
Dearest Northwestern,
Service and love for people
Committed to your cause
Carved in your hand
We serve for all.