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Board of Trustees action items, October 17, 2025

The Board of Trustees of Illinois State University approved several resolutions at its regular meeting on October 17, 2025.

The Board of Trustees of Illinois State University approved several resolutions at its regular meeting on October 17, 2025. Full text of the resolutions can be found on the Board of Trustees website.    

Consent Agenda: All items listed on the Consent Agenda are considered routine and enacted in one motion. Details regarding Consent Agenda items are provided under Meeting Materials in the link above.

Authorization to Approve FY2027 Appropriated Budget Request: Operating and Capital

The Board of Trustees approved FY2027 operating budget and capital appropriation funding requests to the Illinois Board of Higher Education. The operating budget request totals $102.2 million and includes increases for replacement revenue to cover state mandated waivers, student financial aid for need-based students, and expansion support for high need disciplines of engineering and nursing. The capital appropriation request totals $445 million to address goals and priorities outlined in the University’s strategic plan, including new STEM/Science Lab and Mennonite College of Nursing buildings; Milner Library, Williams Hall, and DeGarmo rehabilitation projects; replacement of Thomas Metcalf and University High schools; and a capital renewal plan to address critical facility, mechanical, electrical, plumbing and building envelopes across campus.

Authorization for Consulting Services for Budget Model Implementation

Trustees authorized an extension of consulting services to assist the University in ensuring the successful implementation of strategic budget and financial management practices at a cost not to exceed $375,000. The implementation work will be paid by General Revenue and Auxiliary Facilities Systems (AFS) funds and will include operationalization, change management, and communication support.

Authorization to Purchase Financial Planning and Analysis System

Trustees authorized the purchase of a financial planning and analysis system. The system will provide the University the ability to more effectively align resources with objectives, improve financial transparency, and advance efficiencies in managing budget processes. The software cost and two years of implementation services will be paid from General Revenue and Auxiliary Facilities Services (AFS) funds, not to exceed $1,750,000.

Authorization to Approve the Remodel of the Linkins Dining Center Dish Room

Trustees approved a remodeling project for the Linkins Dining Center Dish Room with funding from EMDH Bond reserve funds not to exceed $850,000. Having reached the end of its operational life, the dish room is a high-volume, continuous-operation facility that processes thousands of plates, glasses, and utensils daily. The remodel will replace outdated infrastructure with new, energy-efficient equipment to increase operational efficiency.

Approval to Replace the Hancock Stadium Video Board

The Board of Trustees approved the acquisition and installation of a new video board system for Hancock Stadium. The outdoor 31.5 feet high by 64.3 feet wide Daktronics LED video board replaces the existing board that was installed in 2013 and has reached the end of its service life. The $2,000,000 replacement project is funded through private donations made to the Illinois State University Foundation.

Authorization to Name the Melinda Fischer Field

Trustees approved the naming of the field at Marian Kneer (Softball) Stadium as Melinda Fischer Field in recognition of financial support to Illinois State University. Group funds were raised to honor Melinda’s legacy as a two-time alumna and former head softball coach, who amassed 1,159 wins over 37 seasons. Her record led her to become the winningest head coach in both Illinois State and Missouri Valley Conference history.

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