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Democratic National Convention resources and impacts

DNC events will take place at the United Center and McCormick Place from Monday, Aug. 19, through Thursday, Aug. 22, 2024 with additional events occurring throughout Chicago.

DNC resources from the City of Chicago

The City of Chicago has launched a DNC web page providing information about road closures and FAQs, as well as instructions to sign up for traffic and emergency alerts during the convention. 

Potential impacts for students, faculty and staff

  • Remote work and learning: School and unit leaders may choose to offer remote work accommodations during this period. If DNC events or road closures impact your commute to work, please contact your manager directly. Schools and units will communicate any disruptions to regular operations. 
  • Building access: Buildings on the Chicago campus will be accessible via Wildcard only. Community members should carry their Wildcards at all times and remain vigilant when entering buildings through secured doors. Please do not prop open exterior doors. For more detailed information, review the building access protocols online. 
  • Shuttles and transportation: Those who drive to work or use city transportation services, including CTA buses and trains, also are advised to plan for delays. Northwestern shuttle service will continue as scheduled during the DNC, but delays are expected. Real-time GPS tracking of the buses is available. See the Shuttle Tracker page for more information and to download the tracking app. Parking in Northwestern lots will not be affected. 

Northwestern's safety response

Emergency Notifications

In the event of a campus emergency, Northwestern will automatically notify you through your University email address. Additionally, anyone can enroll to receive Northwestern emergency alerts by texting “AlertNU” to 226787.  

For more information, please visit the Emergency Notification Systems web page.  

Community Resources

  • NUhelp helps students navigate Northwestern's safety and wellness resources.
  • NUGuardian is a free peer-to-peer smartphone app for Northwestern students. 
  • Free shuttles are provided on both the Evanston and Chicago campuses. 
  • Report a Concern is a reporting website for reporting safety and security concerns, policy violations or misconduct of any type.