Earlier this month, the Illinois State University Board of Trustees approved the naming of the CORE Construction Laboratory, located at 604 N. Adelaide St. in Normal. The designation recognizes CORE Construction’s generous commitment to supporting the University’s construction management facilities.
The CORE Construction Laboratory will feature a state-of-the-art laboratory space for construction management students and supports rapid growth within the major.
“CORE Construction has long been a valued partner to Illinois State,” said Dr. Aondover Tarhule, Illinois State University president. “From scholarship support for students in the construction management program, to championing Redbird Athletics and employing our graduates, CORE Construction continues to elevate the Illinois State University experience.”
During the development of Illinois State’s Science Laboratory in the mid-1990s, Jim Jacobs, now CORE Construction’s Chief Executive Officer, worked closely with the late Chemistry professor, Dr. Sol Shulman. Jacobs admired Shulman’s servant leadership, and the values Shulman embodied—humility, trust, and transparency. Today, these values remain guiding principles for CORE Construction under Jacobs’ leadership.
“CORE is honored to work with Illinois State University on projects that positively impact their growing campus. An even greater honor is having built such a strong relationship with the entire ISU community,” said Tim Erickson, president, CORE Midwest. “We are so excited about the addition of the Construction Laboratory as a way to provide students the opportunity to explore and pursue career opportunities in construction and impact our industry.”
Over the years, CORE Construction’s craftmanship and professionalism have enhanced Illinois State University’s facilities and programs. CORE executed the 2017 Bone Student Center revitalization and more recently, the Center for the Visual Arts Rotunda redesign.
The company also recruits from Illinois State’s talent pool through annual participation in the construction management career fair. Two alumni, Todd Steffen ’99 and Tim Bassett ’09, hold regional president roles.
“CORE Construction’s commitment to Illinois State University exemplifies the strength of our partnership and underscores the company’s investment in our shared mission and values,” said Vice President for University Advancement Pat Vickerman. “This collaboration not only fuels economic growth but also elevates educational excellence, creating a lasting impact on the University and the communities our graduates will empower.”
Corporate and foundation supporters contribute to the vitality of Illinois State University. To invest in the Illinois State experience as a corporation, organization, or foundation, contact Joni Staley, director of corporate and foundation philanthropy at (309) 438-7735 or jstale2@IllinoisState.edu.
