University name and nickname

The University’s full, formal, official name is Illinois State University. ISU is never the preferred reference; however, it is allowed when communicating with an internal campus audience. When communicating with external audiences, Illinois State University or Illinois State should be used on first reference. Subsequent references may be Illinois State or the University. Note that university is capitalized when preceded by “the” as a definite article.

The University’s official nickname is Redbirds, and its mascot is Reggie Redbird. The shortened nickname of Birds is acceptable on second reference and informal communications. Do not use ’Birds with an apostrophe.