Image courtesy of Illinois State University 

NORMAL, Ill. – The State of the University address was delivered by ISU President Aondover Tarhule Thursday afternoon.

“This annual tradition is more than just a status report,” Tarhule said. “It is a moment to celebrate our triumphs and accomplishments, acknowledge and reflect on our shared challenges and opportunities, reaffirm our shared values and strategic priorities, and share once again, our vision of the future.”

The address covered a wide range of topics, starting with general accomplishments for ISU, followed by goals. Tarhule recapped the university’s overall progress through its 168 year history. 

“This marks the fourth consecutive year of growth, bringing our total to nearly 22,000 students at a time when many public institutions are battling declining enrollment,” Tarhule said.

Along with enrollment growth, Tarhule also covered other accomplishments like facility upgrades, an achieved balanced budget, Missouri Valley Conference sports accolades and more.

Tarhule spoke about university finances, noting both upcoming projects and the support of donors. In the last fiscal year, ISU received over $44.5 million in private contributions from more than 13,500 donors, though it also faced financial challenges.

“The choices we faced were complex and challenging. As president, I am glad we did not shy away from our responsibilities,” Tarhule said. “We did not try to ignore reality or kick the proverbial can down the road. As a campus, we committed to handling the challenge transparently, collaboratively, and decisively.” 

Tarhule pointed to challenges such as anticipated budget cuts, rising labor costs, and growing skepticism about the value of a college degree. Midway through his speech, Pro-Palestine demonstrators interrupted the event chanting “Free, free Palestine! From the river to the sea, Palestine will be free!”

One protester claimed, “His university has invested in genocide.” Outside, a group of demonstrators gathered on campus to voice pro-Palestine views. Tarhule did not address the protesters and continued his speech after Bone Student Center staff escorted them out.

Throughout the rest of the speech, student and faculty success, safety initiatives, new learning strategies and housing and dining were mentioned. A key point discussed was safety, as many students, parents and community members have raised concerns over the past few years.

“Illinois State has a dedicated and highly trained emergency management team, campus police force and a network of partners who work every day to ensure our campus remains a safe place to live, learn and work,” Tarhule said. “Safety isn’t just something we discuss during a crisis, it’s an ongoing every day effort of vigilance, care and readiness, and its responsibility is one we take very seriously.”

Tarhule addressed many topics that affect students, faculty, community members and everyone involved on campus. A full version of The State of the University Address can be found on the ISU President’s Office YouTube page.

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