For the sixth year in a row, Illinois State University has kicked off Homecoming week with the Uptown tree lighting in partnership with the Town of Normal.
ISU President Larry Dietz said the town-and-gown relationship is one that has benefitted both the campus and the community.
“Frankly Hancock Stadium wouldn’t be where it is had the town not come up with some money to help us with that stadium, so we’re very much appreciative of that,” Dietz said.
Dietz also cited the renovation of Uptown Normal as a major selling point for incoming Redbirds.
Normal Mayor Chris Koos echoed Dietz’s sentiments.
“And we value that partnership. And we will build on that partnership because what’s great for Normal is great for ISU and what’s great for ISU is great for Normal,” Koos said. “That cooperation is unusual in the world we live in today, and we value it and work very hard to keep it going.”
Homecoming events go on throughout the week at ISU, leading up to the football game Saturday against the Southern Illinois Salukis.
See a full list of events on ISU’s Homecoming website.
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