From Kyrgyzstan to Chicago: NLU Student Named 2026 Lincoln Academy Student Laureate

When Nurtilek Raimzhanov arrived in the United States from Kyrgyzstan at age 17, he faced the challenge of building a new life thousands of miles from home. Today, the National Louis University senior has earned one of Illinois' highest student honors: selection as NLU's 2026 Student Laureate by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois.

The Lincoln Academy's Student Laureate program recognizes outstanding students from colleges and universities across Illinois for excellence in academics, leadership, and civic engagement. Nurtilek's journey reflects all three.

Currently pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with a minor in Business Administration, Nurtilek has maintained a strong academic record while dedicating significant time to supporting fellow students and strengthening communities both on and off campus.

At NLU, Nurtilek mentors more than a dozen international students each semester, helping them navigate academic expectations, campus resources, and professional development opportunities. His efforts have helped establish one of the university's first peer-support networks for students from non-English-speaking backgrounds.

His leadership extends beyond campus. As Head of Student Community for the Kyrgyz Community Center in Chicago, Nurtilek has built programs that support international students and young professionals adjusting to life in the United States. He founded the Winter Refresh Camp, a leadership retreat that brought together more than 30 students for mentorship, reflection, and community building. He also helped organize the Genius Cup, an academic competition involving 125 participants from across the Chicago-area Kyrgyz community.

Alongside his community work, Nurtilek has developed an impressive record of innovation and entrepreneurship. He served as co-founder and chief technology officer of an AI startup, participated in the prestigious Entrepreneur First Fellowship, and was selected as a finalist at HackPrinceton 2025, where he helped develop and pitch an artificial intelligence solution to industry judges.

His commitment to leadership through service also earned him a place in the National Council on Civil Advocacy Fellowship, where he traveled to Washington, D.C., to engage with policymakers and explore the role of civic leadership in creating positive change.

According to Dr. Antonio Tovar, Associate Professor of Computer Science at NLU, Nurtilek's impact goes far beyond academics.

"Nurtilek consistently demonstrates integrity, humility, and a strong sense of purpose," Tovar wrote in his nomination letter. "He is the kind of student who not only excels academically but also seeks to uplift others and create meaningful opportunities within his community."

For Nurtilek, leadership has always been connected to helping others succeed. That mindset has guided him from his first days as an international student in Chicago to becoming one of NLU's most active student leaders.

On October 24, Nurtilek will join Student Laureates from colleges and universities across Illinois at the Old State Capitol in Springfield, where he will be formally recognized by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois for his academic achievements, leadership, and commitment to civic engagement.

National Louis University proudly congratulates Nurtilek on this well-deserved honor and thanks him for the positive impact he continues to make on our campus and beyond.