The ISU board of trustees has now approved its new strategic plan, one focusing on individualized attention for all students with plans to reinforce the ideals ISU is built upon.

ISU president Al Bowman is confident that the plan aligns with all plans previous to it and supports the ideals that ISU is rooted in.

“Since its implementation more than a decade ago — Educating Illinois has helped transform Illinois State into what it is today—a top-choice public institution and a destination for quality faculty, staff members and motivated students,” Bowman said.

This is reflected positively in current statistics of admissions to ISU for the upcoming fall and as a result has created a more competitive institution.

Currently, 14,600 freshmen applications have been received for admission this fall, a 26 percent increase over this time last year. A little more than 8,000 students have been admitted to date, with an average ACT score of 24.7 and a grade point average of 3.54, Bowman said.

The plan has been revised three times and will continue to go through revisions in the future as ISU adjusts to changes within the U.S.

Within the plan’s skeleton lies the University’s plans for navigating changing market conditions as well as strategies for moving the institution toward greater national prominence, Bowman said.

ISU student trustee Aaron Von Qualen has been a significant part of the process of revising the strategic plan.

“The reason Dr. Bowman charged the Vice Presidents with revising Educating Illinois is so the campus community will recognize that we are committed to forward progress and advancing the value of our degree,” Von Qualen said.

“This document builds on past plans, and I believe it sends a message to the campus community that ISU is committed to being the premiere undergraduate institution in the state and committed to its students, faculty, and staff,” Von Qualen said.

Many of the goals outlined in Educating Illinois 2013-2018: Individualized Attention, Shared Aspirations include elements that center on allowing students to thrive within a diverse setting.

One goal that encompasses what is within the text is, “[To] provide a supportive and student-centered educational experience for high achieving, diverse and motivated students that promote their success.”

With the plans prepared and finalized, the ISU board of trustees is now preparing to set the plan into motion for students to be in effect starting within the next fiscal year.