Illinois State University received a $3 million gift commitment from State Farm® on December 19. Funds will support the recruitment and retention of faculty and students in the University’s new interdisciplinary data science bachelor’s degree program, which welcomes its first class in fall 2025. 

“I am thrilled to announce State Farm’s generous gift, which will help us continue to lead in this dynamic and rapidly evolving field,” said Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule. “State Farm’s commitment is an investment in the next generation of leaders, who will learn to harness and interpret big data for the public good. We are deeply grateful for this incredible support and look forward to our continued partnership.” 

State Farm’s contribution provides $1 million for faculty recruitment, offering valuable support and discretionary resources that faculty can use toward research, projects, equipment, and other professional needs related to data science.  

The company has also allocated $2 million toward scholarships for students pursuing a data science major. The aid promotes the recruitment and retention of students from underserved backgrounds by mitigating financial obstacles to enrollment.  

“State Farm is proud of its association with Illinois State University, a key strategic education relationship. Our company employs many Illinois State graduates who help us deliver on our promises to customers,” said State Farm President and CEO Jon Farney ’93. “It is a privilege to make an investment in the new data science program and help advance this important field. We look forward to more Illinois State students and graduates having the opportunity to ethically innovate and excel with data science. This skill set is critical for all industries, including insurance.”  

“As data continue to shape industries across the globe, Illinois State’s data science program will prepare our graduates to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation in technology, health care, business, public policy, and beyond,” said Illinois State University Vice President for Academic Affairs and Provost Ani Yazedjian. “State Farm’s generosity exemplifies the powerful impact of collaboration between academia and industry, and we are excited that this support will help shape the future of data science education at Illinois State.” 

The Illinois State University Board of Trustees approved the data science major in May 2023, in response to a growing workforce demand for data scientists. The interdisciplinary major prepares students to analyze and interpret big data through machine learning, algorithms, data visualization, and statistical models.  

Corporate and individual giving elevates the Illinois State University experience. To make a year-end gift that supports innovative academic programs like data science, visit Giving.IllinoisState.edu.