AU Today

News from the Aurora University community

The Spartan Statue overlooks the Quad surrounded by orange leaves in the fall.

AU named a top 10 college in Illinois

Aurora University earned the #10 spot in the U.S. News & World Report 2026 Best Colleges in Illinois rankings for the second consecutive year. The university also improved its national distinction as a Top Performer on Social Mobility, leaping 34 places to #22, and is now among the top 5% performers on social mobility nationwide. These recognitions reflect AU’s dedication to academic excellence, student success, and expanding access to higher education for learners from all backgrounds.

Person showing a document to another person.

How to evaluate and negotiate your first job offer

Finding your path through exploratory studies at AU

Get interview ready: answering questions and asking the right ones

Student working on her resume in front of a laptop.

Get interview ready: preparing, performing, and following up

Spartan Spotlight

A commitment to service: Patrick Shelton ’92

From military service to mentoring professionals and students, the AU alumnus explains how a commitment to helping others has guided his life’s work.

A commitment to service: Andrea Vallejo ’20

The AU alumna reflects on building a career in public service while mentoring others and creating opportunities for the next generation of leaders.

A commitment to service: Carlos Paret ’96

The AU alumnus reflects on how volunteerism has expanded his career, strengthened lifelong relationships, and inspired a life of service.

Hanna Anderson ’26 earns national social work recognition, offers encouragement to students

The MSW/MPA candidate was named Social Work Student of the Year by Agents of Change.