As the first Black woman to serve as the U.S. Department of Labor’s chief economist, alumna Janelle Jones found a national stage in her push for equity.
By the numbers: Data drives national economist’s advocacy
Publication: Features
Going for gold: Ties between Illinois State, Special Olympics remain strong
Illinois State University has been home to Illinois Special Olympics since 1977.
Deep thoughts: Renowned Redbird scholar Dr. Paul Garris studies the brain and helps students expand theirs
An Illinois State faculty member since 1995, Garris has investigated the role of dopamine in the brain for nearly three decades, specifically as it relates to Parkinson’s disease and drugs of abuse.
Redbird Esports is here: Nationally recognized program continues growth with new facility
In a few short years, Illinois State has built a powerhouse esports program that has made the University a destination for a massive national and international population of prospective students who may have never known about the school otherwise.
Top of their game: New head coaches Allie Matters, Ryan Pedon aim to elevate Redbirds
Still running on adrenaline from coaching Ohio State in the NCAA Tournament two days prior while simultaneously beginning his new role as Illinois State’s head men’s basketball coach, Ryan Pedon paused to chat with a new colleague who was on a similarly chaotic ride—newly hired head volleyball coach Allie Matters.
Closing the gap: ISU-led tutoring program aims to help students impacted by COVID learning disruptions
Illinois State leads the Illinois Tutoring Initiative, with an initial goal to provide math and reading tutors to thousands of students in grades three through eight.
Engineering the future: Plans for new college fit ISU’s mission
History is being repeated at Illinois State University as creation of a College of Engineering advances following approval in the spring by the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE) and ISU’s Board of Trustees (BOT).
What’s next? Alumna Patti Hart answers how to revel in retirement
After retiring a second time, Alumna Patti (Sarles) Hart reflects on her retirement experience, and offers advice for a successful retirement.
Helping humanity goal of alum Dr. Robert Shorty’s corporate work
Illinois State University alum Dr. Robert Shorty is doing the right thing as Nike’s director of global diversity, equity, and inclusion team.
Learning and leading: Student Affairs prepared Dr. J. Michael Durnil to become a national advocate
Dr. J. Michael Durnil ’83, M.S. ’84, was surprised by the response to The E.W. Scripps Company announcing he would serve as the executive director of the Scripps National Spelling Bee last spring. He was soon interviewed by The New York Times, The Washington Post, and on National Public Radio.
