Communications
Access recent messages from the Office of the President.
A Video Message from the President
From the President's Desk
Updates for Faculty and Staff
Recorded Speeches
In the Media
Refusing to Accept the Demographic Cliff
November 2, 2025 | The EdUp Experience Podcast
Dr. Aondover Tarhule joins the EdUp podcast and unpacks the significance of enrollment and the Demographic Cliff at Illinois State University.
The 21st Show Radio Interview
October 22, 2025 | The 21st Show
President Aondover Tarhule answers questions about changing budgets, the new engineering department, and more in this Illinois Public Media radio interview.
State College Funding Gaps
June 9, 2025 | Crain's Chicago Business
President Aondover Tarhule and other Illinois public university leaders speak on the impacts of declining state funding and rising costs.
Q&A: Everything Everywhere All at Once
May 7, 2025 | WGLT
President Aondover Tarhule discusses navigating union contracts, budget issues, and challenges posed by new federal directives.
Q&A: Remaining True to Core Values
February 21, 2025 | WGLT
President Aondover Tarhule commits to Illinois State’s ‘core values’ as a response to recent challenges and uncertainty in higher education.
Fiscal Headwinds
September 19, 2024 | WGLT
President Aondover Tarhule discusses the use of innovative strategies to steer the University through tough financial challenges.
Q&A: Budget Deficit
October 7, 2024 | WGLT
President Aondover Tarhule on past and prospective factors contributing to Illinois State's budget deficit.
Q&A: FAFSA, Funding, and AI
April 25, 2024 | WGLT
President Aondover Tarhule answers questions on FAFSA delays, funding equity, and the future of AI policies at Illinois State University.
Redbird Buzz Episode
April 9, 2024 | Illinois State University YouTube Channel
President Tarhule shares with Redbird Buzz his childhood in rural Nigeria, the role his father played in his education and professional trajectory, and the story behind the many hats he wears (both literally and figuratively) on campus.
Illinois State University’s 21st President
March 18, 2024 | Illinois State University YouTube Channel
Dr. Aondover Tarhule is appointed Illinois State University's 21st President. He shares his transformative vision for the university's future.
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