Chicago’s History is Our History

Reed: ‘Chicago’s history is our history’

IN SEPTEMBER 2024, Loyola President Mark C. Reed addressed the venerable City Club of Chicago to discuss Loyola’s rich and reciprocal relationship with the city in which it was founded.

In his remarks and a lively question-and-answer session with public officials, business leaders, journalists, and alumni, Reed outlined the ways Loyola has grown in scope and international impact while maintaining its founding promise to serve and educate Chicago.

The “Chicago” in Loyola University Chicago is not just part of the name, said President Reed. “Chicago defines us. Being founded in 1870, it is not a stretch to say that we grew up with the city of Chicago. Chicago’s history is our history, and Loyola’s history is  Chicago’s history.”

He noted the many ways Loyola is an anchor institution that helps drive the regional economy through employment, research funding, and the economic activity of students, faculty, staff, and visitors.

20%

of Loyola’s student body is from Chicago

63%

of Loyola’s undergraduates remain in Chicago after graduation

The University makes significant investments in neighborhood infrastructure and provides direct service in health care, small business advising, and legal clinics. The University has educated generations of leaders in Chicago and attracts new talent to Chicago from around the world.

Reed noted how alumni play critical roles in business, law, government, medicine, education, and the arts.