Dear Redbird Community,
Today’s U.S. Supreme Court ruling regarding the use of race in the college admissions process has raised many questions and concerns in the higher education community and among prospective students and their families.
Because Illinois State University does not use race as a factor in admissions, this Supreme Court ruling will not affect our admissions process. Illinois State employs a comprehensive and well-rounded admissions process that integrates high school or transfer GPA, grade trends, course completion, and other factors that may include student co-curricular activities, and evidence of civic engagement and volunteerism. Standardized test scores and personal statements are optional.
Having said that, I want to make abundantly clear that we remain committed and intentional in our efforts to ensure students from all communities and identities across our state and beyond have access to Illinois State’s educational opportunities.
The University’s deliberate approach to student recruitment and enrollment has been highly successful as evidenced by significant increases in the racial and ethnic diversity of our student population from 15 percent to almost 30 percent over the past 10 years. In fact, our fall 2022 enrollment for first time in college (FTIC) students comprised approximately 37.5 percent students from underrepresented communities, mirroring the demographic composition of the State of Illinois. The University is also deeply committed to providing the ongoing support students need to succeed and graduate.
Institutions of higher education have a mission to attract, cultivate, and nurture the talents of a wide range of students from diverse backgrounds. Such diversity creates a rich environment of innovators and thought leaders who continue to make American institutions of higher education the envy of the world.
Illinois State believes societies thrive when they cultivate and support the full abilities and talents of all members. Consequently, equity, diversity, and inclusion are core values of Illinois State and guide our approach to fostering a welcoming and supportive community for all students, faculty, and staff. We remain unwaveringly committed to these values. We are stronger together!
Sincerely,
Aondover Tarhule
Interim President
