Illinois public universities reach highest enrollment in a decade

Illinois’ public universities have reached their highest enrollment rate over the past 10 years, with 190,000 students enrolled this past fall, signaling renewed confidence in higher education across the state. According to recently released data, total enrollment at Illinois’ 12 public universities increased this fall, continuing a positive trend from last year's numbers, which reflects growing student interest in Illinois institutions.

The enrollment growth spans undergraduate and transfer students, with all public universities reporting gains. Undergraduate enrollment, in particular, increased, driven by higher numbers of first-time, full-time freshmen and transfer students choosing to attend college in Illinois. These gains highlight the success of outreach efforts to keep Illinois students in-state while also attracting learners from beyond its borders.

One of the most notable aspects of the enrollment increase is the growth among students from historically underrepresented backgrounds. The data shows higher participation from Black, Latino and first-generation college students, reinforcing efforts to make higher education more accessible and inclusive statewide. At the same time, graduate and professional program enrollment rose, reflecting sustained interest in advanced degrees tied to workforce needs.

Universities across Illinois play a vital role in their communities, serving as major employers, research hubs and cultural centers. Increased enrollment strengthens campus life while supporting local economies, from housing and dining to jobs and regional development. These institutions also contribute to Illinois’ long-term workforce pipeline by preparing students for careers in education, healthcare, technology, agriculture and public service.

For students and families considering college options, the enrollment surge underscores the broad appeal and value of Illinois’ public universities. From large research institutions to regional campuses, the state offers diverse academic opportunities rooted in community engagement and practical career pathways.

As Illinois’ public universities continue to grow, these enrollment milestones point to a stronger future for higher education across the state—one where opportunity and academic excellence remain central to the Illinois experience.

Illinois’ State Tree – white oak

In 1908, Illinois schoolchildren voted for the State Tree. They could select from native oak, maple and elm. The native oak was chosen as the State Tree. There are many kinds of oak in Illinois, so a special vote was taken in 1973 to pick the type of oak for the State Tree. Schoolchildren voted to make the white oak the Official State Tree of Illinois.

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New Year’s Rockin’ Eve is coming to Chicago

For the first time since 1972, Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin’ Eve will broadcast live from downtown Chicago, putting the city on a national stage as viewers across the U.S. ring in 2026.

Traditionally set in Times Square in New York City, the beloved New Year’s Eve special has become a cultural institution. Celebrating its 55^th year, the broadcast is taking on a historic expansion with Chicago hosting the Central Time Zone live countdown and a Spanish-language live broadcast from Puerto Rico.

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Chicago’s very own: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

When most of us think about Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, we picture a beloved holiday icon leading Santa’s sleigh through winter skies, but few realize this famous character actually originated in Chicago.

In 1939, Chicago was home to one of America’s biggest retailers – Montgomery Ward. Trying to boost interest in its toy department and compete with rival Sears, the company turned to a catalog copywriter named Robert Lewis May. May was asked to create a children’s Christmas story to hand out at Montgomery Ward stores during the holiday season.

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