Illinois State University – In the News, July 2025
A monthly column featuring the latest media coverage related to Illinois State University. NOTE: Links provided below may direct you to third-party websites that are not affiliated with Illinois State University.
Crain’s Chicago Business – June 9, 2025
Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule recently was interviewed by Crain’s Chicago Business reporter Judith Crown for the article, “State colleges are cutting back as funding falls and costs rise.”
Summary: As higher education continues to face broad financial challenges nationwide, campus leaders like President Aondover Tarhule are boldly advocating for a more equitable future for Illinois’ public institutions.
Illinois Times – June 19, 2025
Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule spoke with Scott Reeder of Illinois Times for the article, “The college crisis: Regional universities struggle to attract students amid funding challenges, changing demographics.”
Summary: An overview of the challenges facing the state’s public institutions of higher education, as well as recent legislation that passed or failed to pass prior to the close of the spring session of the Illinois General Assembly.
For questions, please contact MediaRelations@ilstu.edu.
Latest Publications
- 2025 Researchers to Know: ISU professors recognized for innovative researchThe Illinois Science and Technology Coalition (ISTC) has named three Illinois State University professors as Researchers to Know. Researchers to Know is an annual recognition from the Illinois Science & Technology Coalition (ISTC) that honors faculty from Illinois universities and research institutions whose work is driving discovery, solving real-world problems, and creating inclusive opportunities for innovation.
- HR news and notes for June 2025HR news and notes features information about Personal Plus Time, dependent tuition waivers, and a reminder about the new year of benefits.
- Research and Honors, July 2025Presentations and publications by Illinois State University faculty and staff members.
- Dr. Ashley Waring-Sparks named interim director of CeMaSTIllinois State University (ISU) has named Dr. Ashley Waring-Sparks as the new Interim Director of the Center for Mathematics, Science, and Technology (CeMaST). Waring-Sparks brings a strong background in STEM education and leadership, along with deep institutional knowledge and experience within CeMaST.
- MacPhee elected to the International Literacy Association Board of DirectorsDr. Deborah MacPhee, professor in the School of Teaching and Learning, was elected to the board of directors for the International Literacy Association (ILA) effective July 1, 2025.
- Governor Pritzker signs FY26 state budgetIllinois State's operating funds will increase by 1% in FY26, with an additional increase of 2% at the discretion of Governor JB Pritzker, who signed the budget on Monday, June 16, 2025.
