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Volume 24 • Number 4 • Fall 2023
The music never stopped: 50-plus years of campus concerts
From the “Prince of Darkness” to the “Queen of Soul,” dozens of music’s brightest stars have shined at Illinois State University over the past half-century.
Artificial intelligence will … change the world
Illinois State experts weigh in on the importance of learning about the advantages of, and working with artificial intelligence.
History for tomorrow: Native American historian studies the past to secure a better future
Dr. R. David Edmunds, M.A. ’66, LL.D. ’02, is an authority on Native American history and culture who has gained the status through more than 50 years of teaching and scholarship. He’s equally adept at delivering a lecture or keynote address, offering commentary on a History Channel documentary, or providing expert testimony in a courtroom.
Let’s talk turkey: Software developed by alum provides farmers a sixth sense
Turkey farmer Jason Yordy ’07 developed TurkeyTrac, a software program that combines experience with technology, providing real-time data on factors that impact the health, growth, and profitability of the flock.
FirstWord: Fall 2023
There is a popular belief that university campuses are deserted during the summer months. I can assure you it is not the case at Illinois State University—and especially not this past summer.
Illinois State breaks ground on Mennonite College of Nursing Simulation Center
Illinois State University supporters, alumni, faculty, staff, and students gathered in June to celebrate breaking ground on the $18 million Mennonite College of Nursing Simulation Center.
Illinois State sees largest freshman class in 36 years, continued strong enrollment
Illinois State University welcomed 4,147 freshmen to its student body for the 2023-24 academic year, its largest incoming class in 36 years.
Tillis appointed to Board of Trustees
Governor JB Pritzker has appointed Darren Tillis to serve as a member of the Board of Trustees of Illinois State University.
Mennonite College of Nursing, Memorial Health partner for Springfield nursing education facility
Illinois State University’s Mennonite College of Nursing and Memorial Health have partnered to establish a new Springfield location for nursing education.
Illinois State University raises more than $34 million during fiscal year 2023
Illinois State University raised more than $34 million in private support during the 2023 fiscal year that ended on June 30, 2023.
Illinois State graduate programs recognized by U.S. News & World Report
Illinois State graduate programs were once again recognized by the U.S. News & World Report.
Franke named director of public affairs and policy
Brad Franke will join Illinois State University August 1, as the director of public affairs and policy.
Campus bookstores rebranded to Redbird Spirit Shop
The bookstore located in the Bone Student Center and The Alamo II, located at 318 W. North St., have been rebranded as the Redbird Spirit Shop.
TV-10 celebrating 50 years with reunion
TV-10 will host a reunion weekend to celebrate its 50th anniversary April 12-13, 2024.
Alumni Association launches Golden Redbirds
Redbird Prime has been rebranded to encompass all alumni 60 years and older and will now be called Golden Redbirds.
Where are they now?: Jay and Doris Groves
Even when Jay ’80, M.S. ’83, and Doris (Liefer) Groves ’81 are thousands of miles from home, it’s not uncommon for a stranger to notice the emblem on Jay’s polo shirt or the logo on Doris’ scarf.
Redbird duo makes big league splash in Minnesota
Illinois State baseball alumni Brock Stewart and Brent Headrick ’19 became the first Redbird alumni to pitch consecutively in a Major League Baseball game.
2023 Percy Family Hall of Fame Class inducted
The Percy Family Hall of Fame inducted five new members during Homecoming Weekend.
Athletics Indoor Practice Facility opens
Illinois State’s Athletics Indoor Practice Facility has opened to Redbird student-athletes.
Illinois State to host 2024 MVC Softball Championship
Illinois State University will host the 2024 Missouri Valley Conference Softball Championship from May 8-11 at Marian Kneer Stadium.
Redbirds impress in latest NCAA Academic Progress Rate Report
Illinois State Athletics earned a four-year Academic Progress Rate (APR) score above the national average.
Crompton earns 2023 MVC postgraduate scholarship
Women’s basketball alum Mary Crompton ’21, M.S. ’23, was one of four Missouri Valley Conference student-athletes to receive a $5,000 postgraduate scholarship.
IHSA Football State Finals set for Nov. 24-25 at Hancock Stadium
Hancock Stadium will host the IHSA Football State Finals November 24-25.
Season tickets on sale for men’s and women’s hoops
Fans can still secure their seats to cheer on the Redbird men’s and women’s basketball teams at CEFCU Arena.
Where are they now?: Tony Wills
Illinois State men’s basketball alum Tony Wills ’17 is in his first season as an assistant coach for the UIC men’s basketball program.
Redbird trivia: Fall 2023
Try your luck at our fall 2023 edition of Redbird trivia.
Then and Now: International House
International House is a living-learning community formed more than 50 years ago.
Pause for Applause: Fall 2023
Join us in applauding these accomplished Illinois State University alumni.
A Day in the Life: Preview program seeks strong first impressions
Every summer, incoming students and their parents and guests arrive for Preview, Illinois State University’s two-day freshman orientation program.
Kate Wajda ’13 finds home in Illinois Gay Rodeo Association
Kate Wajda ’13 found an inclusive community in the Illinois Gay Rodeo Association.
Redbird Legacy: Engelmans serve as unofficial Redbird recruiters
Illinois State’s Office of Admissions owes a debt of gratitude to John ’89 and Janice (Metz) Engelman ’89. They’ve been sending kids to Illinois State for years—and not just their own.
Class notes: Fall 2023
Keep up with what fellow alumni are doing in our class notes for the fall 2023 alumni magazine issue.
In memory: Fall 2023
In memory of Illinois State University alumni, faculty, and staff who have passed away.
Thanks to you: Scholarships and grants afford student research opportunities
Donor support provided Katherine Helmink a summer research opportunity.
