Founded in 1857, Illinois State it is the oldest public university in Illinois. In 2018, Illinois State was ranked number 91 on U.S. News and World Report’s list of best public national universities.

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Campus Diversity: Illinois State aims to foster an inclusive environment characterized by cultural understanding, respect, and social justice. The 2022 freshman class was the most diverse in school history with nearly 30 percent of the total student population coming from traditionally underrepresented groups.

Top Public University: Washington Monthly ranked the University No. 64 out of all national universities for the institution's contribution to the public good through social mobility, research, and public services. Illinois State made U.S. News & World Report's 2022 rankings of America's top public schools, at No. 112.

I first considered ISU because of location, but it was the family feel I got during my very first visit to campus that did it for me. Everyone was so welcoming. In addition to being involved with Phoenix Pact Redbirds, I eventually became the president of My Sister’s Keeper; a female-led minority group aimed at advancing the minority community and promoting leadership, sisterhood, and community service. They provided a tremendous support system for me and became a way to help others in return. ISU made finding and being part of a community easy. -Tashawnna Johnson, ISU 2020