Our shared purpose as we are building our future – News – Illinois State University
- "Homecoming is a reminder that a university is much more than its buildings, programs, or strategic plans.
- As part of the upcoming celebrations, faculty and staff are invited to attend the Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon.
- Beyond the social events of Homecoming, the university is progressing with the implementation of a new budget model designed to foster financial resilience.
“Homecoming is a reminder that a university is much more than its buildings, programs, or strategic plans. It is a community shaped over time by the people who teach, mentor, conduct research, serve, and support our students,” according to the Illinois State University leadership. The campus is currently preparing to celebrate Homecoming 2026: Redbirds Reunite, a week dedicated to reconnecting with colleagues and welcoming alumni back to campus for traditional festivities.
As part of the upcoming celebrations, faculty and staff are invited to attend the Faculty/Staff Appreciation Luncheon. This event is intended to recognize the individuals whose ongoing dedication contributes to the university’s identity and success.
Implementation of the New Budget Model
Beyond the social events of Homecoming, the university is progressing with the implementation of a new budget model designed to foster financial resilience. The administration noted that the institution is currently several months into the first year of this transition, with planning already underway for the second year. University leadership emphasized that, based on experiences at other institutions, such models generally require approximately three implementation cycles to reach full maturity.
To assist with the transition, Vice President for Finance and Planning Glen Nelson has provided videos and resources detailing the model’s guiding principles and motivations. The administration has requested that faculty and staff approach the process with transparency and patience. Should units encounter unanticipated issues or unique circumstances, staff are instructed to document these concerns and relay them to their unit heads, who will then escalate unresolved matters through supervisory channels to the Division of Finance and Planning and the Budget Implementation Technical Working Group.
Upcoming Presidential Speaker Series
Following the Homecoming week events, the university has scheduled the next installment of the Presidential Speaker Series for Tuesday, October 27. The event will feature Scott Pelley, who is set to deliver a presentation titled “Leadership in Times of Uncertainty.” The talk will draw upon Pelley’s career at CBS News, offering insights into communication and leadership strategies for navigating challenging environments.