The news of Nina Kraus missing has sent shockwaves through Northwestern University and the Evanston community. Kraus, a 72-year-old professor of neurobiology, communication sciences, and otolaryngology at Northwestern, vanished on the morning of September 1, 2025, after leaving her home for a routine walk. Her disappearance has prompted an urgent search by law enforcement, university officials, and community members.
Who Is Nina Kraus?
Nina Kraus is a renowned researcher and professor who has dedicated decades of her career to studying how the brain processes sound. She directs Northwestern’s Hugh Knowles Center and has earned international recognition for her groundbreaking work in auditory neuroscience. Admired by students and colleagues alike, Kraus is described as brilliant, energetic, and deeply committed to both science and teaching.
Her sudden disappearance has left many in disbelief, as she was known to live an active and healthy lifestyle.
Timeline of Disappearance
According to investigators, Kraus was last seen around 9 a.m. on Monday, September 1, 2025. She left her residence on the 1500 block of Ashland Avenue in Evanston, Illinois, for her usual morning walk.
Key details from the timeline include:
- Date last seen: September 1, 2025
- Time: Approximately 9 a.m.
- Place: Ashland Avenue, Evanston, Illinois
- Clothing: Long pants, a windbreaker, and a dark backpack
- Items missing: She did not take her cell phone or other personal essentials
Since then, there has been no contact from her, and her whereabouts remain unknown.
Description and Identifying Details
Authorities released the following description of Kraus to help the public identify her:
- Age: 72
- Height: 5 feet 4 inches
- Weight: 140 pounds
- Hair: Long, silver
- Eyes: Brown
- Build: Very fit and slender
Police emphasize that she may still be wearing the same outfit she had on when last seen.
Search Efforts Intensify
The search for Nina Kraus missing has become one of the largest in the area in recent memory. Evanston police, Wilmette police, and Northwestern University Police have all joined forces. Drones have been deployed to survey the lakefront, wooded areas, and parks near her home.
Volunteers and neighbors have also stepped in, combing through walking trails and distributing flyers with her photo and description. The community has shown remarkable unity, determined to help find the beloved professor.
University and Community Reactions
Northwestern University officials issued a statement expressing deep concern and urging the public to help in any way possible. Faculty members and students have been using social media to spread awareness, while colleagues describe her as “irreplaceable” and “a giant in her field.”
Local residents in Evanston have also expressed their solidarity. Many have joined the search while others have been sharing updates online in hopes of gathering any leads that might help locate her.
How the Public Can Help
Authorities are urging anyone with information to step forward. Even the smallest tip may help in locating Kraus. Officials have provided direct contact numbers where the public can share information.
If you saw someone matching her description, or if you live in the Evanston or Wilmette area and may have security footage from the morning of September 1, you are encouraged to notify the police immediately.
Why Her Disappearance Matters
Professor Kraus’s disappearance is not only a personal tragedy for her family but also a loss felt across the academic world. Her pioneering work has helped thousands of students and advanced scientific understanding in critical areas of brain research.
The community fears that her absence will leave a void both academically and personally. For many, she represents more than a professor — she is a mentor, a role model, and a symbol of dedication.
Summary of Key Facts
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Name | Nina Kraus |
| Age | 72 |
| Last Seen | Sept 1, 2025, around 9 a.m. |
| Location | Ashland Avenue, Evanston, Illinois |
| Appearance | 5’4″, 140 lbs, long silver hair, brown eyes |
| Clothing | Long pants, windbreaker, dark backpack |
| Search Status | Ongoing with drones, police, volunteers |
Closing Thoughts
The disappearance of Nina Kraus has shaken the Evanston and Northwestern communities to their core. As search efforts continue, hope remains strong that she will be found safe. If you live in the area or know anything that could help, authorities urge you to come forward.
Let’s all keep Professor Kraus in our thoughts and continue to spread awareness until she is brought home safely. Please share your thoughts or updates in the comments below.