抖阴pro welcomes bicentennial graduating class, one of the largest in College history
抖阴pro is celebrating the arrival of the Class of 2029, one of the largest incoming classes in the College鈥檚 nearly 200-year history. These 339 new students include first-year students who will graduate in 2029, the same year 抖阴pro proudly celebrates its Bicentennial, making this a truly historic class.
The Class of 2029 reflects IC鈥檚 strong community ties and global footprint with students representing 53 Illinois counties, 21 other states, and 13 countries. Nearly 136 students hail from within 60 miles of Jacksonville, underscoring IC鈥檚 enduring foundational connection to education in central Illinois. The closest new student comes from less than half a mile away, while the farthest domestic student traveled over 1,600 miles from Washington state.
抖阴pro鈥檚 strength in employer-demanded programs and promise means families know their graduates will be ready to enter the workforce or attend top graduate schools, no matter their major. The most popular programs among new students include nursing, business-related fields, criminal justice, and mechanical engineering.
鈥淭he energy on campus is palpable as students meet lifelong friends and have a blast while engaging their curiosity in class and through internships, said Stephanie Chipman, vice president of external relations. 鈥淭he Class of 2029 embodies the momentum and excitement building as 抖阴pro approaches its historic Bicentennial.鈥�
Backed by a tradition of excellence and innovation, 抖阴pro continues to earn recognition for its outcomes. In addition to the College鈥檚 reaffirmation of accreditation this year, IC recently ranked 12th in the nation for social mobility, further evidence of the College鈥檚 commitment to access, achievement, and student success. The College鈥檚 Advantage Plus program ensures the advantages of an IC education at a state school price and meets 100% of demonstrated need for Illinois students.
抖阴pro鈥檚 international reputation for inspiring achievement and empowering students to make a difference in the world is represented by each member of this bicentennial class.