Bowman Delivers State of the University Address

Illinois State University remains a flourishing institution committed to academic excellence during a time when many universities are struggling.  In his annual State of the University Address, President Al Bowman said a campus-wide passion for academic excellence and student success is keeping Illinois State strong during uncertain economic times.

Bowman noted that budget uncertainties and cutbacks in financial assistance for needy students are some of the biggest challenges facing Illinois State this school year.  Despite that grim scenario, he cited ways the University is enhancing its academic reputation and attracting an increasingly engaged, motivated and diverse student population.

Support for students with deep financial needs will continue to be a priority in the coming year.  Bowman said even though the State of Illinois will likely not reimburse the University for tuition waivers given to veterans and National Guard members, Illinois State will continue to provide them at an annual cost of around $3 million dollars. 

More than 3,500 Illinois State students receive Monetary Awards Program (MAP) grants from the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.  For the second year in a row, the University will contribute more than $5 million of its internal resources to cover shortfalls in funding for grants.  "While we believe the governor and legislature will address MAP issues later this fall or in early spring, we must be prepared to invest, at least provisionally, in these students to protect their academic futures and our enrollment," said Bowman.  "If we don't help, these students may leave Illinois State, never to return.  That action could ruin their dreams for a better life and, in my opinion, constitute a failure to adhere to our mission and values."

During a time when other universities have been forced to cut academic programs and student services and slash faculty and staff salaries, Bowman remains committed to avoiding similar Draconian measures.  "I do not foresee layoffs or furlough days at Illinois State," said Bowman.  "Every single position at this University is important and I will work hard to protect the positions that make ours a great institution."

Bowman cited the academic excellence of the student population and high retention and graduation rates as signs of true success during tough times.  This fall's freshman class of 3,033 students has a composite ACT score of 24.3.  More than 400 of those students scored 28 or better on the ACT, while 165 scored 30 or better.  The student retention rate stands at 84.9 percent and graduation rate at 70 percent.  "High-caliber students, outstanding teaching and mentoring, a caring and committed support staff and quality facilities all combine to boost retention and graduation rates," said Bowman.   "I am proud to say we have the right mix at Illinois State."

Enhancing diversity within the campus community by attracting more students from underrepresented groups remains a high priority for Bowman.  The number of freshman African-American students enrolled this fall rose 18 percent and the number of Hispanic students increased by 36 percent.  The retention rate for African-American students rose more than seven points to nearly 81 percent, while the retention rate for Hispanic students rose more than four points to just under 80 percent. 

"As we plan and prepare for a future of shifting demographics and greater numbers of diverse populations entering the college environment, these numbers represent a great start and a base from which we can expand," said Bowman.  "In just six years, 40 percent of high school graduates in Illinois will be Hispanic or African-American."

In addition to enhancing its environment for people from all walks of life, Illinois State is also creating a safer and more sustainable campus environment.  A new alert system is now in place that provides instant phone, text and email notification in the event of an emergency on campus.  Thanks to effective marketing and campus leadership, more than 15,000 members of the campus community have already signed up for the system.  Illinois State also has plans in place to prevent the spread of the H1N1 influenza virus.  Bowman said the University is following Centers for Disease Control protocols for dealing with the disease and that faculty, staff and students are being provided with guidance on what do if they develop flu-like symptoms.

Bowman noted energy efficiency measures, water conservation efforts and infrastructure improvements are part of Illinois State's push toward a more sustainable campus.  A campus bike program, free access to local buses for faculty, staff and students and a new car share program are providing the campus community with an array of alternative transportation options.  "Last year, Illinois State became a signatory to the American College and University President's Climate Commitment," said Bowman.  "The greenhouse gas inventory has been completed and this year we will begin work on our climate action plan to create strategies for the University to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions."