Summer on campus provides time to pause and rejuvenate. It is also an opportunity to reflect, close out the fiscal year, and prepare for the next academic year. I am pleased to report that while many of us, me included, took some time away this summer, much work was done to advance Illinois State University’s priorities.  

At its May meeting, the Illinois State Board of Trustees approved our new strategic plan, Excellence by Design: 2024-2029. This new strategic plan is bold, innovative, and designed with a view to help Illinois State navigate the emerging turbulent landscape of higher education while achieving new levels of excellence.   

Also in May, Dr. Ani Yazedjian was named vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. Having worked closely with her for four years, I am confident she is the right individual to serve as the University’s chief academic officer. I look forward to working with Dr. Yazedjian and the rest of our cabinet colleagues on the many transformative projects the University has embarked upon. 

Speaking of projects, summer is also renovation and construction season. Our Facilities team continued work on phase two of the DeGarmo Plaza renovation, planning the facilities for the new College of Engineering, and renovating a dozen or more classrooms and lecture halls. Meanwhile, the Mennonite College of Nursing Simulation Center is coming along nicely, and I am looking forward to the ribbon cutting ceremony this semester. 

While I remain excited and confident, I am mindful of gathering clouds on the horizon that Illinois State, like all universities, is paying attention to. For example, the much-anticipated enrollment cliff, when the number of high school graduates is expected to sharply fall, will be upon us in fall 2026. And despite all evidence to the contrary, public skepticism, and pessimism about the value of a college degree continues to grow. Additionally, inflationary pressures combined with the cost of deferred maintenance have strained the finances of many universities, including flagships. Illinois State is in a strong position to weather these challenges, but we must act proactively and strategically. Therefore, I spent the summer huddled with my cabinet colleagues and the Board of Trustees and have developed several strategies to help us thrive and remain resilient.

While we celebrated our 4,220 graduating students at commencement in the spring, the fall semester brings the excitement of move-in as we welcome yet another strong cohort of students eager to begin their academic journeys. Along with students, our dedicated faculty and staff and supportive alumni all play vital roles in keeping your Illinois State refreshed, invigorated, and a thriving center of learning.  

I invite you to learn more about what is happening on our campus and the work being done by the Redbird community in these pages of State magazine. I hope it puts a smile on your face and a glow of pride in your heart. Go Birds!