Instructional Leadership, emphasis: K-12 School Leadership (MEd)
Looking up at the The Benchmark sculpture, also referred to as "french fries".
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    Presidential statements

    Messages from President José Luis Cruz Rivera

    President Dr. Jose Luis Cruz Rivera speaks at a podium with an American flag in the background.

    February 13, 2025

    Today marks a moment of great pride for Northern Arizona University as we are recognized with the Carnegie Research 1 (R1) designation—the highest classification for research institutions in the United States. This achievement is a testament to years of exceptional work by our faculty, staff, and students who drive research excellence and innovation every day.

    Our R1 status recognizes the transformative impact NAU faculty have in their fields, creating new knowledge and driving innovation, as well as the quality and scope of our graduate programs that contribute to growing the next generation of researchers and practitioners. It also reinforces our dedication to a student-centered approach and the teacher-scholar model that is at the heart of our institutional identity. Our faculty are not only advancing cutting-edge research, but they are also providing exceptional educational experiences that prepare our students for dynamic, evolving careers in the modern workforce.

    Read more about this achievement
    Read more about the Carnegie Classification

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    Record philanthropic support propels NAU’s Elevated Excellence

    NAU achieved the highest annual fundraising milestone in our 122-year history! The collective support we have generated will empower the success of our students and contribute to the impact of our scholarly and service endeavors that broaden knowledge and enrich lives

    Introducing NAU 2025 – Elevating Excellence

    The strategic priorities set forth in NAU 2025 – Elevating Excellence represent a robust synthesis of the NAU community’s thoughtful engagement and bold aspirations for the future, coupled with the input of important public, private, and philanthropic partners.

    Announcing NAU’s Access2Excellence Initiative

    NAU’s Access2Excellence (A2E) makes clear to Arizona students and families that NAU is accessible and affordable. When the initiative launches in Fall 2023, Arizona resident students from households making $65,000 or less per year will attend NAU tuition-free.

    An update on NAU’s efforts to become Arizona’s leading engine of opportunity

    I’m excited to share that NAU has secured $81 million in new investments and obtained approval for the implementation of new admissions requirements. Together, these developments position us well as we seek to become Arizona’s leading engine of opportunity.

    Video messages

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    The Office of the President strives to engage deeply with all our Lumberjack communities. Explore our video announcements and statements to see where we’ve been and highlight our path forward.
    Drone view of N A U Flagstaff campus in winter.

    Recent announcements

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