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The Reggie bust in the Redbird Plaza.

Values

Learning and Scholarship

Illinois State University works with students as partners in their educational development so they appreciate learning as an active and lifelong process. The University contributes new knowledge through research and creative activities in which all students, faculty, and staff are encouraged to participate. Faculty members embrace a model that values their contributions as both teachers and scholars in a balanced way.

Individualized Attention

Illinois State University provides a supportive environment that focuses on each student as an individual. The University immerses learners in teaching and scholarship, fosters academic and personal growth, recognizes unique educational aspirations, and values each faculty and staff member's contributions to student success.

Diversity and Inclusion

Illinois State University affirms and encourages community and a respect for differences. The University fosters an inclusive environment characterized by cultural understanding and engagement, ethical behavior, and a commitment to social justice. The University supports a diverse faculty and staff who mentor a diverse student population. The institution endeavors to provide opportunities for students, staff, and faculty to participate productively in a global society.

Civic Engagement

Illinois State University prepares students to be informed and engaged global citizens; ethical leaders who will craft, promote, and further positive goals for the betterment of society. The University promotes active learning experiences, through which students gain an awareness and understanding of civic engagement as a lifelong responsibility.

Collaboration

Illinois State University community members work collaboratively to ensure the success of the University. They are dedicated to participating in shared governance, building on prior accomplishments, and making ongoing improvements. The University partners with business, industry, government, and educational entities to provide leadership in local, statewide, national, and international initiatives; expand service and outreach; and enhance financial support for instructional, scholarly, and service activities.

Respect

Illinois State University fosters a culture characterized by mutual respect, a civil exchange of ideas, and a collaborative approach to problem-solving. Faculty, staff, and students acknowledge others' rights to express differing opinions; they listen to opposing views conscientiously; and, when disagreeing, they do so responsibly.

Integrity

Illinois State University promotes an environment defined by the highest ethical standards. Leadership of the University is characterized by stability, adherence to shared values, collaborative decision-making, and accountable stewardship of all university resources. Teaching and learning, including research and creative activities, are conducted at the highest level of academic quality and integrity.

Living Our Values Awards

Illinois State University’s core values—Learning and Scholarship, Individualized Attention, Diversity and Inclusion, Civic Engagement, Collaboration, Respect, Integrity—are spelled out in Educate Connect Elevate: Illinois State – The Strategic Plan for Illinois’ First Public University 2018-2023. These goals embody our University’s culture of innovative and introspective growth, and it is through individuals in our Illinois State family that these values come to life through action.

Awards

The Living Our Values Awards recognize individuals as well as joint efforts from a group whose work exemplifies Illinois State’s core values. The awards celebrate the commitment to live our values every day, and strengthen the campus community by sharing those values.

Nominations

Nominees can be any current Illinois State student, faculty or staff member, or a group of people at Illinois State working toward a program or initiative that reflects the core values. Submit a nomination

Categories

The categories for the Living Our Value Awards are:

  • Living Our Values Student Award
  • Living Our Values Faculty/Staff Award
  • Living Our Values Group/Initiative Award

Those nominating should be able to explain how the nominee exemplifies one or more of Illinois State University’s core values:

  • Learning and Scholarship
  • Individualized Attention
  • Diversity and Inclusion
  • Civic Engagement
  • Collaboration
  • Respect
  • Integrity