President Tarhule announces FY27 Strategic Initiative Fund to support strategic plan’s success, deadline May 15

Following the launch of the inaugural Excellence by Design Strategic Initiative Fund awards in FY26, proposals for FY27 awards are being sought. The deadline for proposals is Friday, May 15, 2026.

The $500,000 fund provides one-time financial awards that advance the University's strategic plan, Excellence by Design: 2024-2030.

For FY27, Illinois State University President, Dr. Aondover Tarhule, identified six strategic priorities that proposals must directly support:

• Improve student retention rates
• Improve graduation rates
• Reduce DFW (D/F grades, withdrawal) rates
• Accelerate time to degree completion
• Improve operational efficiency and cost savings
• Enhance program visibility and prestige

"The 10 strategic initiatives that were granted funding in FY26 are making an impact in furthering the vision of our strategic plan," said President Tarhule. "As we look to the future in continuing this momentum, I challenge faculty and staff to 'think big' and propose ideas that can have a far-reaching effect on propelling Illinois State University forward in excellence."

Faculty and staff are encouraged to collaborate with other divisions, colleges, departments, and units in developing proposals that can create a campus-wide impact.

Please visit EBD Strategic Initiative Fund for more information.