As a premier undergraduate institution, it’s not surprising that Illinois State keeps students as the focal point in all endeavors. The result is an exceptional student population that thrives on individualized attention from administrators, faculty and staff who are equally pleased to be a part of the University.
For the fourth consecutive year, ISU has been recognized by The Chronicle of Higher Education in its “Great Colleges to Work For” report. The 2018 study recognizes universities and colleges that have created exceptional work environments.
Illinois State is one of 10 universities honored in the category of large schools that have 10,000 or more students. The only university from Illinois to be cited, ISU is ranked with Baylor, Hofstra, and the University of Notre Dame.
Selection is based on the results of a survey administered to a random sample of faculty and staff. An institutional questionnaire that captures workplace practices and policies is also evaluated.
Results are tabulated into 12 categories that evaluate satisfaction from collaborative governance to job satisfaction, confidence in senior leadership, work/life balance, compensation, and job satisfaction.
Illinois State was recognized for excellence in 11 of the categories, showing a need for improvement in only the area of diversity. Efforts to increase enrollment of underrepresented student populations has been a goal in recent years, with initiatives underway in various areas including Admissions and Financial Aid. In addition, the University has launched the INTO Illinois State program as a means to attract more international students.
“To earn the ‘Great Colleges to Work For’ designation for four consecutive years—with a record 11 categories this time—is a testament to the excellence of Illinois State,” President Larry Dietz said. “Each year we have grown in the number of categories garnering accolades, which reflects our continued drive to excel in every aspect of education.”
