Welcome to the University of Illinois!

You and your fellow students in this fall’s freshman class are destined for a special place in U of I history — set to graduate in 2017, as the Urbana campus celebrates the 150th anniversary of its founding.

The sesquicentennial is a proud milestone and you will remember your place in it for a lifetime. I also hope that the events leading up to the celebration give you an even greater appreciation for the choice you made to come here, as we look back on the rich legacy of excellence in education and innovation that has made the U of I one of the world’s premier public research universities.

For all of you, the weeks, months and years ahead will be time of discovery that will transform your lives, providing the knowledge and skills that will unlock the doors to your dreams. Enjoy the journey, the new friends you meet and be sure to have some fun along the way.

Robert A. Easter,

University president