The EdUp Experience The University That Refused to Accept the Demographic Cliff - with Dr. Aondover Tarhule, President, Illinois State University
Nov 3, 2025
Dr. Aondover Tarhule, President of Illinois State University and a climate/hydrology scholar, shares his inspiring journey from Nigeria to university leadership. He discusses strategic enrollment management to combat demographic declines and emphasizes the need for programs that align with workforce demands. Dr. Tarhule reveals how data analytics helped the university improve student retention by addressing financial barriers and course failures. He also outlines initiatives that transformed nursing and engineering programs to meet local industry needs.
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From Nigeria To A University Presidency
- Dr. Aondover Tarhule rose from Nigeria to become Illinois State University's 21st president through academic work and administrative progression.
- He credits mentors and steady career steps rather than a childhood plan for the presidency.
Plan For Demographics Years Ahead
- Illinois State anticipated the demographic decline and built an enrollment management plan years ahead.
- Creating new programs broadened their applicant pool and positioned them to buck the demographic cliff.
Align Programs With Career Pathways
- Do align program offerings to student demand and clear career pathways to attract applicants.
- Strengthen internships and career services alongside program growth to convert interest into jobs.