Building the future: A fall welcome from President Tarhule

The Office of the President distributed the following message to the campus community on August 18, 2026.

Hello Redbirds,

Welcome to an exciting new academic year at Illinois State University! The semester is fully underway, and despite last week's challenging weather, our excitement and enthusiasm remain strong.

The Redbird spirit was on full display in the energy and teamwork required to prepare the campus for classes this week. Everywhere you look, there's a palpable sense of momentum and endless possibilities for the year ahead. Classrooms, residence halls, dining centers, the Bone Student Center, Milner Library, and many other areas are vibrant with activity. We are also thrilled to welcome 86 new faculty and staff members to Illinois State.

Redbirds and resources are here for you

The start of a new academic year is a time of excitement and fresh opportunities. For new students, it means exploring new places, meeting new people, establishing new routines, and discovering countless ways to learn and grow. Even for those who have been part of the Illinois State community, each semester brings new challenges and possibilities.

Illinois State offers exceptional resources and, most importantly, caring people who are eager to support you. Students with questions related to financial aid should visit the department webpage, Hovey Hall 101, or call 309-438-2231. Academic or curricular related questions should be directed to your advisor or course instructor via email or Canvas. Question about housing issues should visit University Housing Services webpage, your residence hall front desk, or call 309-438-8611, and those needing to report an absence or having questions about activities should consult the Dean of Students Office in Student Services Building 387 or call 309-438-2008.

A great way to stay connected is through the Illinois State App, which provides quick access to everything Illinois State-from email and events to dining options and campus maps. We're dedicated to your success and here to support you every step of the way.

We are building the future

We continue to build not just physical spaces, but new opportunities for our students, faculty, staff, and future Redbirds to grow and thrive. We have broadened our academic offerings with newly-established plans of study. This year's additions include the Animation and Entertainment Arts sequence, accelerated Applied Economics sequence, Leadership and Management sequence for Nurse Practitioners, and many new sequences in the College of Education. These additions, along with recent new majors like Engineering, Data Science, STEM MBA, and Sports Communication, help Illinois State respond to the evolving needs of students, communities, and the workforce. At the same time, we are transforming our campus to better serve today's students, researchers, and staff. The renovation of the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts is progressing. Renovations at Campus East will accommodate the growth of the College of Engineering, with space available for additional campus entities. We have secured Board approval and funding for our new Science Complex, with groundbreaking expected in spring 2027. Additionally, we are exploring options for student housing. Many projects are reshaping our campus and creating environments tailored to how our students learn, collaborate, create, and succeed.

President's priorities and outlook

This year, my top priorities are strengthening student success, expanding academic opportunities, and advancing research and innovation. Additionally, I want to position Illinois State for institutional agility and readiness for AI, ensuring we stay ahead in a rapidly changing world. These objectives will drive the achievement of our strategic plan, Excellence by Design: 2024-2030, enhancing the University's long-term success and visibility.

While Higher education is evolving and challenges lie ahead, I remain optimistic about Illinois State's future. We have robust academic programs, dedicated faculty and staff, a vibrant alumni base, generous donors, and students who are passionate about pursuing their dreams and thriving. Unlike many institutions facing uncertain circumstances, we are in a fortunate position to invest, grow, and plan proactively.

Our true goal is not just to adapt to change but to lead it-shaping a brighter future for our university and the communities we serve.

Prepare to thrive

Achieving this vision requires all of us. I encourage you to get involved, explore new opportunities, seek help when needed, share your ideas, and embrace the possibilities around you. We are committed to supporting you, helping you succeed, and shaping an Illinois State University that serves you today and inspires Redbirds for generations to come. The road ahead is full of promise, and I am truly excited about where we are headed. I am grateful to share this journey with you and am confident in what we can accomplish together.

I look forward to seeing you around campus and hearing your goals, experiences, and dreams for the future.

Have a fantastic semester, and Go You Redbirds!

Aondover Tarhule, Ph.D.
President