Illinois State University is a public research university in Normal, Illinois. Founded in 1857 as Illinois State Normal University, it is the oldest public university in Illinois. The university emphasizes teaching and is recognized as one of the top ten largest producers of teachers in the US according to the American Association of Colleges of Teacher Education. It is classified among "R2: Doctoral Universities – High research activity". The university's athletic teams are members of the Missouri Valley Conference and the Missouri Valley Football Conference and are known as the "Redbirds," in reference to the state bird, the cardinal.
| Former name | Illinois State Normal University (1857–1965), Illinois State University at Normal (1965–1968) |
| Motto | Gladly We Learn and Teach |
| Type | Public research university |
| Established | 1857 |
| Endowment | $151.4 million (2020) |
| President | Larry Dietz, Terri Goss Kinzy (effective July 1, 2021) |
| Provost | Aondover Tarhule |
| Administrative staff | 3,563 |
| Students | 20,635 |
| Undergraduates | 18,250 |
| Postgraduates | 2,628 |
| Campus | College town, 1,000 acres |
| Colors | Red and White |
| Mascot | Reggie Redbird |
| Sporting affiliations | NCAA Division I FCS — MVC |
About Illinois State University
Founded as Illinois State Normal University, the school is recognized for being one of the top ten largest producers of teachers in the US. It is the oldest public university in Illinois.
Achievement of Illinois State University
The nickname of Redbirds is a reference to the Illinois state bird being the cardinal. Their mascot is named Reggie Redbird.
Top Facts You Did Not Know About Illinois State University
Illinois State University Category.. State universities in Illinois.. Buildings and structures in McLean County, Illinois.. Education in McLean County, Illinois.
Latest information about Illinois State University updated on July 28 2021.
