Board of Trustees action items, December 12, 2025

The Board of Trustees of Illinois State University approved several resolutions at a special meeting on December 12, 2025. Full text of the resolutions can be found on the Board of Trustees website.

Consent Agenda: All items listed on the Consent Agenda are considered routine and enacted in one motion. Details regarding Consent Agenda items are provided under Meeting Materials in the link above.

Design and Construction of GE Road Facility Solar Energy System

The Board approved the integration of a large-scale solar energy system for the property located 1711 General Electric Road, the future site of the College of Engineering. Seimens Industry, Inc. will design and construct the solar system, estimated to generate 3.2 MW of electricity, at a cost not to exceed $16.5 million and upfront costs minimized by state and federal incentives. The innovative and sustainable project is expected to offset 80-90% of expected electricity consumption, reducing annual operating costs for the University. General Revenue will fund the project.

South Campus Housing-Dining Project Pre-Construction Services

Trustees re-approved up to $8 million in expenditures, previously authorized on May 6, 2022, to resume Pre-Construction Services at the former site of Atkin-Colby and Hamilton Whitten Residence Halls and Feeney Dining Center. The project will allow the University to establish a budget and appoint architects, engineers, and other necessary project consultants to work toward planning and designing a 900-bed residential hall and a 450-seat dining center at the former south campus location. The project is funded through Auxiliary Facility System (AFS) Resources.

Naming of the Carole and Jerry Ringer Concert Hall Stage

Trustees approved the naming of the concert hall stage inside the Center for Performing Arts as the "Carol and Jerry Ringer Concert Hall Stage" in recognition of financial support to Illinois State University. Carol and Jerry Ringer have also been advocates and supporters of fine arts at Illinois State University, including Jerry's role as founding member of the Shakespeare Festival Board of Directors, and Carol's leadership roles for several community organizations.

Naming of the Doug and Kathy Collins Gym and the Doug and Kathy Collins Athletics Leadership Suite

The Board approved the naming of the north gym at Horton Field House as the "Doug and Kathy Collins Gym" and the 213 office suite in CEFCU Arena as the "Doug and Kathy Collins Athletics Leadership Suite" in recognition of financial support to Illinois State University. Following his time as an Illinois State Basketball student-athlete from 1970-1973, Doug went on to play in the NBA and later served as a coach and broadcaster. Kathy is a graduate of the College of Education. Since attending the University, both have remained strong supporters of Illinois State Athletics, continuing to elevate and enhance the student-athlete experience.