ANDers™ Campaign
Welcome to NU’s ANDers Campaign
ANDers are the personification of hard work and resilience. They face challenges that extend far beyond the classroom — yet they continue to rise, thrive, and move forward. Through the ANDers Campaign, our donors honor that perseverance, recognize these students as a vital part of higher education, and ensure that more of these striving students succeed.”
Support ANDers Today!
Dr. Mark D. Milliron President and CEO National University
Who are ANDers?
ANDers are our inspiring and hard-working students at National University! They juggle many roles and responsibilities as students AND:
PARENTS
...AND so much more.
EMPLOYERS
EMPLOYEES
MILITARY & VETERANS
CARETAKERS
DID YOU KNOW?
More than 80% of NU undergraduates are transfer students 50% of NU undergraduates are servicemembers or Veterans
The vast majority of NU graduate students are working students with an average age of 39
About National University
From its inception in 1971, National University’s mission has been to provide an accessible, world-class student experience that ensures success through meaningful learning.
National University has been, and always will be, committed to Whole Human Education™, which is why we offer groundbreaking outcome-focused, flexible four- and eight-week classes. Today, we offer over 150 online and on-site programs, wraparound student support, one-on-one graduation models, and more – all designed to fit into the busy lives of adult learners.
National University is renowned for serving non-traditional, military-affiliated, and working students for over 50 years.
As a result of our innovative approach to adult education, the Carnegie Classification of Higher Education Institutions has recognized National University as one of the prestigious ‘Opportunity Colleges and Universities’ and as a highly successful ‘Professions-focused Undergraduate/Graduate-Doctorate Large Institution.’
We’re flipping the script on the traditional rankings game by proving that access, academic excellence, and strong career outcomes can and must coexist. This recognition is a validation of what we believe at our core: that education can be accessible, affordable, top-quality and life-changing — all at once.”
Dr. Mark D. Milliron President and CEO National University
NU is in 50 states and 20 countries
NU serves more than
50,000 degree-seeking students
NU has
80,000 workforce and professional development students annually
“
NU supported my academic journey by allowing me the flexibility to jump in and out of courses in order to pursue my overall goals of earning a bachelor’s and a master’s degree.”
Lagarian S., Class of 2014 and 2019
Support ANDers Today!
What is the ANDers Campaign?
The ANDers Campaign is a comprehensive, first-of-its-kind initiative for National University to secure the funding our students need to pursue their academic studies and training programs at NU.
At its heart, the ANDers Campaign is not just about raising funds. It’s about removing barriers for our hard-working students. When our ANDers are unable to overcome the barriers to completion, multiple opportunities are lost. Students and their families lose the opportunity for a better life. Our communities lose the opportunity to benefit from a well-educated citizenry and highly trained workforce. Prospective employers lose the opportunity for greater talent.
Conversely, when we remove those barriers, the opportunities multiply for our students, their families, and our communities.
FAST FACT
NU is ranked in the Top 20 of accredited colleges and universities offering online programs, according to the Online University Database.
I’ve been an ANDer myself — working my way through school while juggling life’s many responsibilities as CEO of WD-40 Company, a US public company. So when I learned about National University’s campaign to support today’s ANDers, I didn’t hesitate to get involved. My daughter is a proud NU alum. These students are not just learning — they’re leading, giving back, and building stronger communities every day.
It’s an honor to champion their journey.”
Garry Ridge, Co-Chair The ANDers Campaign Chairman Emeritus WD-40 Company Founder, The Learning Moment
We have designed a systematic program to clear the pathway to completion, a comprehensive program of innovative approaches and programs from our faculty and staff.
To continue and escalate our progress, we are calling on individuals, alumni, foundations, and corporations to invest in our first level of the ANDers Campaign with the goal of raising $30 million.
By investing in our ANDers, we are not just funding education; we’re shaping lives, lifting communities, and driving a future full of promise. Join us and be the force that makes it all possible.
Support ANDers Today!
The ANDers Campaign Supports Students Through:
How Will Your Contribution Support ANDers?
Securing targeted philanthropic investment removes the primary barriers to ANDers’ success.
Total Campaign Goal: $30 Million
• Scholarships: $15 million annual scholarship fund, plus 50 new endowed scholarships
• Emergency Aid: $1 million for general emergency fund
• The Nest Healthy Learning Center: $6 million to expand The Nest Healthy Learning Centers across California and beyond
• The ANDers Military Pathway: $6 million annually for scholarship; Ten $15,000/ year for four years to support one active military, a family member or veteran; Ten $25,000 named endowments
• Practice: The annual ANDers Summit: $500,000 annual naming; Named Graduate Fellowships: $250,000; Named ANDers Innovators Fund: $400,000
Learn More About How The ANDers Campaign Supports Students
Scholarships
A primary element of our plan to remove barriers for our ANDers is to address the financial challenges our students face.
We know from experience that money matters. In particular, we know students’ completion rates jump when they can afford to attend National University full-time. We also know that part-time students often struggle even more and cite financial pressure as the principal reason they “stop out” or even drop out.
So, we begin by keeping our tuition rates among the lowest possible while sustaining innovative programs with expert faculty. Our average annual tuition is approximately $16,000 per year and varies by area of study and number of courses taken.
Currently, 34% of NU students receive scholarship support — but many more qualify. Through the ANDers campaign, we aim to close that gap and expand access to life-changing education for even more students.
That’s where the ANDers Campaign comes in. With an ambitious goal to raise $15 million in scholarship support annually and establish at least 10 new named scholarships, this effort will help more students start — and stay — on their educational journey. By reducing financial barriers, we can empower thousands of ANDers to focus on learning, graduate faster, and step confidently into careers that uplift their families and communities.
Goal: $15 million annual scholarship fund
68% of NU students received some form of financial aid in 2025.
Help remove the financial barriers to higher education by creating new endowed scholarship funds or contributing to the ANDers Scholarships for targeted support.
Receiving this scholarship is an opportunity for me to enhance my education as well as give back to the community through teaching and mentorship to facilitate financial stability.” “
Lamont M., Class of 2025
Emergency Aid
Emergency aid provides students with one-time financial assistance to address unforeseen, urgent expenses that may hinder their ability to stay enrolled and focused on their studies. This aid is typically separate from regular financial aid and is designed to cover unexpected situations like medical bills, car repairs, food and housing insecurity issues, unexpected medical expenses, etc.
Often referred to as “just-in-time” funds, emergency funds are provided to students in good standing who have an unusual, one-time occurrence that can be effectively overcome with financial support.
Data shows that NU students who were granted Emergency Aid persisted at higher rates. Indicating the major impact Emergency Aid needs can have on a student being able to continue their education.
Goal: $1 million for general emergency fund
“
I’m forever grateful for your rescue.”
Emergency Aid Recipient
Each year, hundreds of National University students request emergency aid. We understand that life can be unpredictable, and we want to ensure that a moment of crisis doesn’t derail a student’s education. This fund provides timely support to help students stay on track and reach graduation.
Emergency Aid Recipient
I
This
[NU emergency aid grant] makes things so much better under our circumstances. You have no idea how thankful I am for everything you have done to help me. This is really such a blessing.”
Emergency Aid Recipient
The Nest Healthy Learning Center: A Haven for Working Adults
Introducing our newest resource for our hardworking ANDers: The Nest Healthy Learning Center.
The Nest is an inclusive new physical space staffed with knowledgeable NU professionals and designed to provide students with personalized services and support. Located in key locations within reach of public transportation, The Nest is a haven for studying, meeting with fellow students, or receiving academic or enrollment assistance.
The Nest was inspired by recognizing that some of the requests for emergency aid such as childcare, internet access, etc. could actually be addressed more effectively by creating a “third space” of learning.
The Nest at NU’s Spectrum Campus is also home to three exciting training, support, and technology spaces:
The Sanford Harmony Family Clubhouse
• The Veteran & Military Community Center
• The Navigator Innovation Studio
Each NU Nest Healthy Learning Center provides a great new way to engage with the NU community and experience our services, support, and people firsthand.
The Nest connects ANDers with:
• Academic Resources
• Childcare by YMCA
• Financial Planning and Aid
• Career Services
• Tutoring
• Veteran Services
• Mental Health Support
• Wi-Fi and Loaner Laptops
Goal: $6 million to expand The Nest Healthy Learning Centers across California and beyond
This investment will fund new Nest locations, enhance support services, and create welcoming third spaces where ANDers — including parents, veterans, and working adults — can access Wi-Fi, tutoring, mental health support, childcare, career counseling, and more. The Nest ensures that no student has to choose between life and learning.
Support ANDers Today!
The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.
The ANDers Military Pathway: Service and Success
For more than fifty years, National University has been leading the way in supporting military service members, Veterans, and their families with quality, affordable and flexible education.
In fact, National University was founded as a non-profit in 1971 by a retired US Navy Captain when he recognized that most institutions of higher education had rigid schedules that simply did not meet the needs of the military when they were transferred to different locations. Most had to pause, stop, or drop their dream of obtaining a college education.
“ “
NU
has given me my family back, allowing me a career beyond the military that lets me spend more time with my son.”
FAST FACT
National University was named a Military Friendly School (MFS) Gold Level in the category offering doctorates (2022-23) for military members, spouses, and dependents.
Goal: $6 million annually for scholarship; Ten $15,000/year for four years to support one active military, a family member or Veteran; Ten $25,000 named endowments
The ANDers Campaign is perfectly designed to support our military servicemembers and their families. Each year, National University provides $18 million to support our military servicemembers, Veterans, and their families. We want to be able to continue that tradition and, with your support, we can.
NU
has given me a sense of community since being out of the military, because I get to interact with military people who understand me.”
Christopher J., Class of 2024
Marisa D., Class of 2023
Military Student Funding
Challenges
Transition Barriers:
Military personnel transitioning to civilian life face unique challenges when pursuing higher education, including navigating complex VA benefits, adjusting to academic environments, and balancing family responsibilities.
Opportunities
Specialized Support:
Military-specific scholarships can bridge the gaps in federal funding, providing targeted financial assistance for textbooks, technology, childcare, and other expenses not fully covered by the GI Bill.
Impact
Service Recognition:
Military-specific scholarships honor the sacrifice and service of our armed forces by removing financial obstacles to their educational goals.
Benefit Gaps:
While active duty servicemembers can use their tuition assistance benefit, the amount of assistance falls short of covering full tuition, particularly for those pursuing advanced degrees or specialized programs at National University.
Time Constraints:
Active-duty servicemembers frequently encounter difficulties completing their education due to deployments, relocations, and demanding operations tempo.
Career Advancement:
Additional financial support enables veterans and active-duty personnel to pursue specialized certifications and advanced degrees that align with their military experience, enhancing their civilian career prospects.
Academic Continuity:
Flexible scholarship funds help military students maintain academic progress during transitions between duty stations or during deployment preparations.
Skills Translation:
Financial support enables military students to build upon their unique skill sets, effectively translating their military expertise into valuable civilian qualifications.
Veteran Success:
Graduates with military backgrounds bring exceptional leadership, discipline, and problem-solving abilities to the workforce, contributing significantly to organizational success and economic growth.
Military Scholarship Initiatives:
Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program Expanding National University’s participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program to cover a greater percentage of tuition and fees beyond standard VA benefits.
Military Spouse Scholarships
Dedicated funding for military spouses who often face challenges in their own educational and career advancement due to frequent relocations.
Combat-to-Classroom Fund
Specialized financial support for combat Veterans addressing their unique transition challenges and leveraging their battlefield experiences in academic settings.
Practice
National University is dedicated to research in innovating impactful practices that champion and support student success for ANDers.
Today, more higher education students are juggling school and careers, school and families just like our ANDers! NU is uniquely positioned to better understand how ANDers really learn.
We believe our research is providing the insights to pragmatic solutions for real-life challenges. Our models of 4- and 8-week courses, Metaverse learning, online, on-ground and hybrid learning modalities are all examples of our research and innovation in best practices for learning.
ANDers Summits serve as dynamic convenings where students and educational leaders come together to share insights, spark innovation, and co-create research-driven strategies that reimagine learning for nontraditional students.
The first ANDers Summit will take place in 2025.
Support ANDers Today!
Goal: The annual ANDers Summit: $500,000 annual naming; Named Graduate Fellowships: $250,000; Named ANDers Innovators Fund: $400,000
At National University, we believe in offering practical solutions to real-world programs.
Policy
Too often there are local, state, and federal policies that have the unintended consequences of impeding our ANDers in obtaining their education and training goals. We want to offer and advocate sensible, practical solutions that can be adopted and implemented, often without any financial impact on governmental institutions.
While seeking government policy changes is an unusual goal within a traditional fundraising campaign at National University, it is not unusual for us to do the unusual! It’s part of the way we have been so successful in our 50+ years of history.
We continually remain active in these issues, many that will benefit students at other institutions.
Modernizing Section 127 of the US Tax Code
More than 73% of employees want to take advantage of the employer education reimbursement plan, but that number drops to just 39% when they realize the reimbursement levels without tax penalties are limited to just $5,250 in tuition reimbursement.
At National University, we believe unlocking private businesses to more fully support their employees’ abilities to seek and obtain further education through reimbursement programs will stimulate productivity and employee stability.
Enhancements to the GI Bill
While the GI Bill provides substantial support, there are still benefit gaps where it often falls short of covering all educational expenses, particularly for those pursuing advanced degrees or specialized programs at National University.
Yellow Ribbon Enhancement Program
We want to expand National University’s participation in the Yellow Ribbon Program to cover a greater percentage of tuition and fees beyond standard VA benefits.
NU
has a lot of different grants, funding, and scholarships, which helped me take either free classes or pay a little less to get my degree.”
Nikki S., Class of 2019
