Lawrence Schumacher

Lawrence Schumacher was on his way to graduate school when his mother, Violet, convinced him that his “people” personality and his logical mind would be a good fit for the family business. He began his career in 1973 as an instructor at Northwestern College (formerly Northwestern Business College until 2008). Over the years he has held posts in the College’s financial aid, marketing, and admissions departments. Mr. Schumacher assumed the role of President in 1977 and since then has overseen the development and implementation of the College’s innovative programs that prepare graduates for today’s competitive marketplace.

Under Mr. Schumacher’s leadership, Northwestern College has developed a cutting-edge placement office that proudly sustains an outstanding graduate placement rate. He has been responsible for the College’s sustained growth throughout his tenure as President, bringing in new degrees such as Paralegal, Criminal Justice, Medical Assisting, Registered Nursing, Radiologic Technology, Sonography, and more. He enabled the College to open a branch campus in Bridgeview, Illinois as well as lead the College into its online delivery of complete Associate in Applied Science programs.

Mr. Schumacher is currently a Member and Immediate Past President of the Business Education Research Association and the Private Education and Research Council. He is also an active member of the Proprietary Advisory Committee to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. Distinguishing his expertise within the field of higher education, Mr. Schumacher served six years as a Commissioner for the Accrediting Commission for Independent Colleges and Schools. As Commissioner from 1989 through 1995, he regularly traveled throughout the country evaluating a variety of higher education institutions to ensure that they met the requisite accreditation criteria.

Mr. Schumacher holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from DePaul University. He has been married to his wife, Gail, for over 34 years and together they have three adult children.

Today, Lawrence Schumacher is Northwestern College’s President and Board Chairman. He works regularly from the College’s administrative office in Rosemont, Illinois, however still enjoys going out to the College’s campuses where he meets regularly with students, faculty, and staff.