Illinois State University Took Stand For Equality In Education After Civil War
NORMAL - Illinois State University in Normal has long been known for its beliefs in equality. That is reflected in its recent past and many hirings, including Will Robinson, the first African-American men’s basketball coach in NCAA Division I history, in 1970.
African-American alumni of ISU include luminaries like Donald McHenry, the United States Ambassador to the United Nations in the Carter administration.
The history of Illinois State in educational equality dates back to its earliest years. During the Civil War, the student body opposed slavery and threw their support to President Lincoln.
Many ISU students served the Union in the "Teachers Regiment," the 33rd Illinois, which was raised by the first university president, Charles Hovey.
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