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.

Chicago Fire FC announced the approval for a new, privately funded stadium in The 78 – a project that will anchor Chicago’s newest neighborhood. The 78 is 62 acres of undeveloped riverfront land found in downtown Chicago.

This marks the first major stadium built in Chicago in more than 30 years, and it’s being delivered entirely through the private investment. The new stadium will give the club a world-class home while creating a year-round destination for the entire city. The new $650 million stadium will seat approximately 22,000 fans, striking a balance between an electric, high-demand atmosphere and a world-class matchday experience. It was designed by Gensler in “Chicago School” fashion with the enduring elegance of the warehouses that represent the city’s grit and hard work. Gensler is the designer of the stadiums for Austin FC, LAFC and Toronto FC.

Naperville has been ranked the No. 1 city to live in America for the second year in a row according to Niche rankings top 50 best places in America to live.

Niche surveyed over 50,000suburbs and neighborhoods to find the best places to live in the U.S.  On top of best city to live, Naperville was ranked first in cities to buy a home, raise a family and best public schools. Coming with the territory Naperville also was selected as best place to live in Illinois.

Naperville, founded in 1831 originally as Naper’s Settlement, experienced a population boom in the 1980s and 1990s. This boom was largely attributable to its location within the Illinois Technology and Research Corridor. Companies like Nokia, BP, Nicor, Edward Hospital, Kraft Foods and ConAgra have labs and offices in Naperville.

The city boasts a robust library system, art and film festivals, historical preservation and recreation through the Naperville Park District. Naperville even boasts a river walk and Centennial Beach, a quarry turned swimming hole. Naperville also contains several colleges and university satellite campuses including College of DuPage Community College, Devry administrative headquarters, Northern Illinois University satellite campus and Indiana tech.

The city has attracted many young professionals and families and is sure to continue growing in the coming years. The other top five cities to live in Illinois are Clarendon Hills, Hinsdale, Vernon Hills, and Kildeer. The remainder of the top 20 were Chicago neighborhoods, suburbs and towns in northern Illinois.

Last year, Illinois made monumental economic developments, particularly one that brings the state to the forefront of a premier technological industry. Last summer, the state announced a major Manufacturing Illinois Chips for Real Opportunity Act agreement with PsiQuantum – a leading quantum computing company set to build the first practical, error-corrected quantum computer at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago.

Quantum computing is emerging as a cutting-edge sector of computer science that focuses on solving large problems through the use of quantum mechanics. Quantum computers, as opposed to normal super computers, use qubits instead of bits to store information and process the data differently. These computers can solve problems on a grander scale much faster than classical computers by testing multiple potential solutions simultaneously and measuring the probability of finding the best outcome.

Illinois is a state that embodies innovation, craft, surprise and creativity, so it is no surprise that 2.16 million international travelers visited the state in 2023. This boosted the Illinois economy by nearly $2.7 billion, a 47% increase from the previous year.

In 2023, Illinois welcomed visitors from Canada, Mexico, India, the UK, Germany and many other countries. This vast increase in international tourism shows a growing global appeal of Illinois. 

Illinois is full of attractions. The state boasts beautiful state parks including Matthiessen, Garden of the Gods and Starved Rock, attractions such as  Henson Robinson Zoo, Grady’s Park and Sea Lion Aquatic Park, and museums like the Art Institute of Chicago, The Schweikher House and Curiosity Museum.