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Center for Civic Engagement
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Center for Civic Engagement

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2026 Civic Engagement Awards

The 2026 Civic Engagement Award winners were announced during Illinois State’s annual Civic Engagement Celebration on April 6, honoring individuals and groups across the campus and community.

Discover the winners and categories.

Civic Engagement Award Winners

A student working as volunteer on a Alternative Breaks trip.

Make a #RedbirdImpact with Alternative Breaks

During an Alternative Spring Break trip to Memphis, Tennessee, in 2024, students worked with Living Lands & Waters to collect 46,032 pounds of trash in 4 days. Watch the video and learn more!

Apply for Alternative Breaks.

Illinois State University recognized for student voting

Illinois State University was named a 2024 ALL IN Most Engaged Campus for College Student Voting by the ALL IN Campus Democracy Challenge.

Visit the Redbird Voter Guide.

Picture of line on election day.

Types of Civic Engagement

Discover the ways Illinois State practices civic engagement and some examples from actual projects.

Explore Types of Civic Engagement

News and Events

See what's happening with civic engagement at Illinois State.

Student photoshoot at Voterpalooza

Students celebrate democracy at Illinois State’s first Voterpalooza

After voting early in the 2026 midterm elections at the Bone Student Center, more than 100 Illinois State students then went to the Brown Ballroom to celebrate with food, games, and resources from student organizations. 

Read more Civic Engagement news

Dr. Heather Dillaway environmental portrait

From the Dean’s Office: November 2026
boxes of toys for donation to Toys for Tots

Toys for Tots donations requested for 2026 toy drive
A group of volunteers from Phi Gamma Nu at The Baby Fold.

Partner perspective: From a shared history to shared purpose
Nov3

Election Day Watch Party

11/3/26 at 7:00 PMMilner Library
Nov13

Conversations Café

11/13/26 at 12:00 PMOffice of International Engagement Lobby, Fell Hall, Second Floor
Nov30

Holiday Helper Gifts Vetting

11/30/26 at 9:00 AM308 Kingsley St., Normal, IL

View all Civic Engagement Events

Make a Contribution

Support life-changing experiences for our students

View Giving Opportunities