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Student smiles while participating in Festival ISU activities.

Get Involved

No matter your interests or background, there is something for you at Illinois State University. From campus government to social organizations, chances to get involved are everywhere. If you can't find exactly what you are looking for, it is easy to start your own organization.

  • students in a residence hall room

    The Association of Residence Halls (ARH)

    The Association of Residence Halls is the umbrella organization for the residence halls. All residents are encouraged to become involved in ARH to learn more about the policies that affect their experience in the residence halls. The purpose of this organization is to identify and respond to the needs of residence hall students, provide services, and to coordinate educational and social programs to meet students' needs and interests.

  • Leadership Associations

    Each of the four areas of campus is governed by one organization that represents the needs of its constituents. The four organizations are the Cardinal Court Leadership Association (CCLA), Tri-Towers Leadership Association (TTLA), Hewett-Manchester Leadership Association (HMLA), and Watterson Leadership Association (WLA). These organizations collaborate on programs and activities with their corresponding Diversity Coalition, Resident/Community Assistants, and ARH to provide fun, social, and educational programs for students. Executive Board elections for Leadership Associations are held annually.

    Area Government
  • Diversity coalitions

    Diversity Coalitions

    Diversity Coalitions provide leadership and education to our residential students by offering engaging opportunities in the residence halls for diversity programs, such as co-sponsorship of cultural dinners and planning diversity based field trips.

    Both Leadership Associations and Diversity Coalitions provide opportunities for the students to:

    • Plan programming opportunities for residents.
    • Sponsor trips, retreats, and leadership training.
    • Vote with the Association of Residence Halls for housing/dining initiatives.
    • Manage budgets over $6,000.
    • Gain valuable leadership experience and build your resume.
  • Residence Hall Community

    Developing a community in the residence halls is an integral part of the residential experience at Illinois State. Communities are important to providing opportunities for interaction and developing life-long friendships. One way the residence halls develop community on the floors is through programming. Programs can be social, cultural, recreational, or educational. The staff in each residence hall provides opportunities for residents to experience a balance of activities in these categories. Your ideas, suggestions, and participation are strongly encouraged and welcomed.

    University Housing Services is committed to making residence hall living a productive, enjoyable, educational, and growth-filled experience. To achieve this goal, residents and staff share in the responsibility of building community and creating an environment that welcomes each member of the hall.

    Residence Hall communities

  • Campus involvement

    Campus involvement

    Whether your interests are social, academic, or athletic, Illinois State has something for everyone. For more information on organizations and getting involved, contact the Dean of Students Office or check out the list of registered student organizations.