Delve into programs, speeches, and other records documenting the time-honored traditions that continue to mark milestones at Illinois State University and connect generations of Redbirds across time and space.
Illinois State University Traditions
Explore Digitized Collections
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Commencement Programs
These documents list the names and majors of all participating graduates from IS(N)U’s first commencement ceremony in 1860 through the present day.
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Founding Celebration
IS(N)U first began honoring its birthday in 1909 with a banquet for friends of the university. The tradition was celebrated intermittently until 1969, after which it went on hiatus. Founders Day, as it was then termed, returned in 1995 with a bell-ringing ceremony and convocation honoring award-winning employees.
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State of the University Addresses
First given in 1967, this annual address from the president of Illinois State University celebrates the institution’s accomplishments over the past year and lays out a roadmap for its future.
Related Collections
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Gamma Phi Circus Programs
Gamma Phi started life at IS(N)U as a gymnastics fraternity in 1929. Beginning in 1932 and continuing to the present day, the members stage a yearly performance for campus and community members every spring.