The implementation phase of Excellence by Design: 2024-2030 is underway, and teams are in place to begin work on achieving the goals and metrics set forth in the strategic plan.
At the September 25, 2025, State of the University Address, Illinois State University President Aondover Tarhule launched the Strategic Initiative Fund in support of the plan’s success.
“This $500,000 fund will provide one-time financial awards to support the implementation of strategic initiatives that directly advance the goals and metrics outlined in our strategic plan,” said Tarhule. “Strategic initiative proposals must be submitted by October 31.”
The strategic plan is built on SMART goals, and will steer the University’s actions, investments, and decisions over the next five years. Some of the goals within the metrics of the plan, include:
- Developing and adopting a comprehensive Master Plan by 2027.
- Developing and implementing a resource allocation model by FY27.
- Increasing our student success metrics, notably, raising retention to 85% and our 6-year graduation rate to 70% by 2030.
- Positioning our institution among the Top 100 Public Schools in the U.S. News & World Report rankings by 2030.
- Increasing the amount of scholarly grant expenditures by 10% each year with a goal of $35 million by 2030.
Please visit https://strategicplan.illinoisstate.edu/implementation/ebd-strategic-initiative-fund/ for more information.
