The Alumni & Friends Travel Program is your ticket to unforgettable adventures that combine travel’s thrill with fellow Redbirds’ camaraderie.In the winter of 2026, Redbirds can fly south from January 31-February 7. Nestled in the Pacific Ocean—at the confluence of three ocean currents—the Galapagos Islands are a haven for explorers, nature enthusiasts, and those seeking a profound connection with the natural world. Guests will have exclusive access to many island locations that other vessels do not. They will benefit from the knowledge of naturalist guides, get up-close encounters, and see some of the most unique wildlife on the planet.Join us on a transformative expedition voyage through these enchanting islands to celebrate life’s diversity and to witness firsthand the stunning display of nature’s endless wonders.This program is open to all alumni, family, and friends—because the Redbird spirit knows no borders. To learn more about upcoming trips, detailed itineraries, and how to reserve your place, visit illinoisstate.orbridge.com or join our online travel trip information session with OrBridge on October 21 at 5 p.m. (CT). Register online before the date to receive the link to the information session.

Do you find yourself putting things off to the very last possible second? Are you often scrambling to turn in quality work because you waited too long to start? Don’t know how to break your bad procrastination habits? Learn some strategies to help you prioritize, motivate yourself, and dominate procrastination! Call the Visor Center at 309-438-7100 or stop by to sign up!

Being able to communicate effectively with your professor both in and out of class can significantly impact your learning, and ultimately your success. This interactive workshop will give you opportunities to ask questions and get tips on building a professional network. Call 309-438-7100 or stop by the Visor Center to sign up!

The Center for Integrated Professional Development’s Early Career Learning Community offers course instructors in their first through third years of service at ISU a combination of professional development and peer support. Join us for a series of engaging conversations on teaching, learning, and thriving in academia. For fall 2025, our focus will be on the book A Pedagogy of Kindness, by Catherine Denial. This book presents a fresh perspective on teaching that focuses on ensuring justice, believing in our students and colleagues, and contributing to both student and faculty success. Denial offers practical techniques for creating syllabi, developing student assessments, and creating trust and belonging in the classroom.  Copies of A Pedagogy of Kindness are available to attendees. An electronic version is accessible through Milner Library, and the audiobook is available through Normal Public Library (for those with a library card).To request a copy, or join this learning community, please email Dana Karraker, dmkarra@ilstu.eduSynchronous Meeting Dates: Wednesday, September 17 or Thursday, September 18 Wednesday, October 22 or Thursday, October 23 Wednesday, December 3 or Thursday, December 4

Are you wondering what it is like to be a graduate student? Connect with current graduate students and learn about their experiences, the graduate school application process, tips and tricks for writing a personal statement and a resume, and get a glimpse into their everyday life. You may find that applying for and attending graduate school may not be as hard as you think!Access sessionAccess session virtually at: https://teams.microsoft.com/l/meetup-join/19%3ameeting_ZDZkOTQ1ZjYtYmViMi00NmE1LTgwZTAtZWQ3MmU3Njc0NmJh%40thread.v2/0?context=%7b%22Tid%22%3a%22085f983a-0b69-4270-b71d-10695076bafe%22%2c%22Oid%22%3a%22eeef14aa-c40d-4db6-b842-1edd7e4faabf%22%7dOther session of the Graduate School SeriesStudents are also invited to attend the Grad School Game Plan.This series is hosted by Career Services in collaboration with Illinois State University’s Graduate School.Special accommodationsIf you need special accommodations in order to participate, contact Career Services at (309) 438-2200.

Are you feeling disconnected, overwhelmed, or simply stretched too thin? In today’s higher education landscape, many instructors are navigating an increasingly dynamic environment marked by political pressures, shrinking budgets, rising workloads, and shifting expectations from students and institutions. Now more than ever, we need spaces that support our well-being and remind us we’re not alone in this work. The Teaching with Presence Learning Community offers a space to slow down, reconnect with your purpose, and find support among colleagues. This hour-long learning community meets every three weeks and is designed to encourage reflection, meaningful connection, support your well-being, and examine how intentional practices can bring more clarity and calm to our teaching.We welcome you to join this learning community at any time. Please contact Mayuko Nakamura (mnakamu@ilstu.edu) to join the group.