By Adam Studzinski
NORMAL – What is the state of Illinois State University? “Strong and Stable,” at least according to the university’s president.
President Larry Dietz delivered his annual State of the University address on campus Thursday afternoon.
Dietz said ISU is not exempt from challenges. Continued uncertainties at the state level have led ISU to decide not to give any salary increases this fiscal year.
“I want you to know that I am sorry about that,” said Dietz. “You deserve better, as do millions of private and public sector employees across the state who must forgo financial award for service excellence.”
Dietz explained Illinois State has put a freeze on administrative hiring.
“76 administrative related positions have been or held vacant for an annual savings of $3.6 million,” he said.
Dietz said ISU is still hiring key leadership positions. He announced Greg Alt has been named to a fixed term as Vice President for Finance and Planning. Alt will serve in the role through December 2017.
The search for Vice President of Student Affairs is underway. Dietz anticipated filling that position by the end of the spring 2016 semester.
“We have once again pushed back timelines for millions of dollars in renovation and maintenance projects that are not safety critical,” Dietz said.
One project not on hold is the overhaul of the Bone Student Center.
“The project will create a new and much more welcoming space for the thousands of prospective students and their families, who often get their first close-up look at campus after parking in the Bone Student Center lot,” said Dietz. “I note during this period of particular economic stress that most of the funding for this project is already in hand.
“It utilizes no tuition or taxpayer appropriated revenue and it will not require a new, or an increased, student fee.”
Dietz added demolition of the decommissioned Atkin-Colby and Hamilton-Whitten residence halls will begin in spring 2016.
Dietz said Illinois State has been doing its part, now it’s time for lawmakers to do theirs and end the budget impasse.
Even though the university has made some difficult decisions, Dietz said ISU will remain “strong and stable” and continue to place a high priority on supporting its students.
Adam Studzinski can be reached at adam.studzinski@cumulus.com.
