A message from President Tarhule – Birds Give Back 2026

Greetings, fellow Redbirds.

I invite you to join me for Birds Give Back, Illinois State University's annual day of giving, on Thursday, February 26. Each year, this day reflects the generosity and shared commitment of our campus community, and its impact on our students and programs throughout the years has been truly meaningful.

This year's Winter Olympics theme, "Give for the Gold," reminds us that only through a focused and collaborative effort can we truly achieve lasting success.

You can support this campaign not only through your gift but by taking your participation to the next level by becoming a Birds Give Back Ambassador. By registering, you'll receive a personal link you can share with friends and family and on social media to help inspire support for the areas you care about most.

I hope you'll take part on the big day by making a gift to support your favorite campus causes. Together, we can make this a gold medal year for Illinois State.

Thank you for all you do to support Illinois State and our students.

Go You Redbirds!

Aondover Tarhule, Ph.D.
President