Greetings, Redbirds!

I am excited to begin this edition of our Alumni and Friends Newsletter by sharing the Division of Student Affairs 2020-21 viewbook! This annual publication provides a small snapshot of the exciting initiatives that are happening throughout Student Affairs at Illinois State. While the printed viewbook has been produced for a number of years, this is the first year that a digital version is now available to all of our outstanding alumni and friends. We hope you will enjoy reading these stories.

This year’s viewbook comes as we are busy preparing for a very special day at Illinois State–Birds Give Back. This annual day of giving on Thursday, February 24 is one that we look forward to each year. Our focus areas for this year include:

• supporting community-building efforts in our residence halls,
• increasing access to paid internships for students’ career development,
• and research and innovation related to student engagement and involvement.

We hope that you will participate in Birds Give Back by making your gift to one of these important initiatives or supporting your own passion area in Student Affairs. You can also be part of this exciting day by spreading the word on social media using #BirdsGiveBack.

Thank you in advance for your continued support of the Division of Student Affairs at Illinois State University!

Go Birds!

Levester “LJ” Johnson, Ed.D
Vice President for Student Affairs

Reggie Redbird talking on the phone

The fourth annual Birds Give Back, Illinois State’s own giving day, will be held on Thursday, February 24, during ISU’s Redbird Philanthropy Week scheduled from February 21-25.

A rendering of the inside of the new esports gaming complex

In fall 2021, Illinois State University’s Board of Trustees approved the development of a larger, enhanced gaming complex in the Bowling and Billiards Center to become the future home of Redbird Esports. Renderings of the gaming complex are now available, as well as naming opportunities throughout the space.

Illustration of two yellow heads with conversation bubbles.

Deliberative Dialogues are guided conversations on a variety of topics often difficult to discuss. The program uses issue guides from the National Issues Forum Institute (NIFI) to direct conversations among small groups. Participants practice conversational skills as they learn to respect and appreciate the perspectives of others.

Close up young man using smart phone

Illinois State University students have access to expanded therapy options with WellConnect telehealth, available during the Spring 2022 semester.

Students being presented STAR Moment Award via Zoom

Each month outstanding Student Affairs staff members, full-time and student employees, are nominated by their peers for the STAR (Staff That Are Remarkable) Moment Award. To be considered for a STAR Moment Award, a person must demonstrate a willingness to go above and beyond, whether it be through outstanding customer service, helping a coworker, or stepping up in a difficult situation.