After serving Illinois State University for 35 years—the last five as vice president for Student Affairs—Steve Adams will retire in June.

A national search has begun.

During his tenure the division led construction of the Student Fitness Center and McCormick Hall, renovated residence halls and dining centers, enhanced the Bone Student Center, and paved the way for the ISU’s first-ever public and private student housing initiative. The division also implemented an emergency texting system and added a security force to augment campus police patrols.

Adams previously served as assistant vice president for Enrollment Management and Academic Services, director of Admissions, and interim director of Financial Aid, among other leadership positions. During his 11 years as director of Admissions, Adams helped raise the new student academic profile to record levels.

He has held many professional state positions and been given many honors, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the Illinois Association for College Admission Counseling. He is a member of the Illinois Basketball Hall of Fame and the Illinois State University Athletic Hall of Fame. He has served for 35 years as the “Voice of the Redbirds,” and will continue those duties for Redbird Athletics.