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Volume 20 • Number 4 • Spring 2020
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Overcoming dark days: ISU’s response to national mental health crisis
Illinois State’s response to the national mental health crisis.
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Beyond the box score: How two grads powered into professional baseball
How Illinois State University alumni Betsy Jochum ’57 and Paul DeJong ’15 powered into the field of professional baseball.
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Trust through truth: Alum tackles tough metro assignments by building relationships
Illinois State alum and WDAF FOX4 reporter Zac Summers ’11 discusses the current news industry and his past working at Illinois State’s TV-10.
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Weed wizard: Professor alters plant genes to create wonder crop
Dr. John Sedbrook’s genetically mutated plant could create a positive force for the environment as well as provide additional income for farmers.
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State funding released for renovation of Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts facilities
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker came to the Illinois State University campus on Thursday, January 30, to announce the release of the remaining $52.3 million in capital funding for the renovation of facilities in the Wonsook Kim College of Fine Arts.
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Where are they now? Susan and Steven Kern
Former faculty Susan Kern paved the way for ISU’s philanthropic efforts.
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Dream come true: Redbird star Del Fava drafted by pro soccer league
Illinois State senior Kate Del Fava was selected with the 12th-overall pick during the National Women’s Soccer League College draft.
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Redbirds will face Sooners in 2023
The Illinois State football team will play at perennial power Oklahoma on September 2, 2023, in Norman, Oklahoma.
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Cubs choose former Redbird
The Chicago Cubs selected former Illinois State pitcher Brock Stewart during the Rule V Draft in December.
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High graduation rate tops national average
According to a 2019 NCAA report, Illinois State student-athletes have a 90 percent graduation rate.
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Seven receive 2020 Alumni Awards
The Alumni Association recognized seven individuals and their outstanding achievements and contributions.
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Lifelong learning: Alumni appreciate free access to webinars
The Alumni Association provides lifelong learning and career development opportunities for Redbirds long after graduation.
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Nominate royalty for Homecoming 2020
Plans are underway for Homecoming 2020: Redbirds in Flight, which is set for October 19-25.
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Historic appointment: Alumna first African American and female to lead ISU’s governing board
Alumna Julie Annette Jones ’90 is the first African American and female to lead ISU’s governing board.
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Pause for applause: Spring 2020
We applaud these Illinois State alumni featured in the April 2020 issue.
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How we met: Mary and Phil Loveall
An ordinary day on campus turned out to be anything but for Phil Loveall ’63, M.S. ’65.
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Redbird legacy: Like father, like son
Illinois State freshman Jalen Love learned early on the value of going to college and pursuing a degree. His parents, Larry and Betty Love, were both first-generation college students who found a home at the University.
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Thanks to you: Michael Jones ’92
Michael Jones ’92 is a big believer in the power of an education.