Northwestern College has been named a best-in-class employer by Gallagher, the college’s benefits consultant, as part of its 2025 U.S. Benefits Strategy & Benchmarking Survey. The designation recognizes organizations that demonstrate excellence in benefits strategy, employee well-being and cost management, based on an in-depth benchmarking analysis of employers nationwide.
According to Gallagher, the criteria used to evaluate employers focus on how organizations implement effective benefits and people strategies to achieve measurable outcomes, such as cost reductions and enhanced employee well-being. The evaluation recognizes organizations that prioritize health, financial confidence and career growth for employees while maintaining a sustainable cost structure.
“One of the college’s strategic planning initiatives focuses on creating and sustaining a culture that attracts and retains outstanding employees,” says Kent Wiersema, vice president for finance and operations. “While external recognition is not our primary goal, it is both humbling and encouraging to see the thoughtful work being done across human resources, benefits and compensation recognized in this way. Our teams remain committed to supporting our employees and advancing Northwestern’s mission for the benefit of our students and the broader campus community.”
Gallagher evaluated participating organizations across several key measures, including long-term planning for benefits and compensation, the scope of well-being initiatives, employee turnover rates, workforce engagement efforts, retirement planning support and year-over-year health care cost performance. Northwestern excelled across these areas, placing it among the nation’s top midsize and large employers.
Gallagher is a global insurance brokerage, risk management and consulting services firm with headquarters in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.
