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Dear Millikin Alumni and Friends,
On the first day of classes this fall, I greeted a student walking across campus and inquired about his day. ''I'm great," he replied. "I am blessed!" His expression captured how I felt that day, also, and how I continue to feel these few months later. The opportunity to steward this great University as we navigate the shifting landscape of higher education is truly a blessing.
When I began in July, I made a promise to the campus: The guideposts of my presidency would be the 4 P's of presence, purpose, people and partnership. I would be engaged on campus and in the community; I would challenge us to think about the future to which we are being called; as a University, we would become "student-ready" and create a culture where everyone at Millikin feels like they matter; and we would embrace our role as an anchor institution in Decatur, prioritizing partnerships for educational and community good. I invited others to consider these guideposts in the context of their own work, and the campus responded!
The aspirations of the 4 P's are challenging, but they are achievable because we have so many strengths upon which to build. This fall we enrolled our largest class of new students (545) since 2020, and it included our largest class of transfer students in over a decade. We celebrated the grand opening of the David J. and Debra C. Rathje Athletic Center, a state-of-the-art facility serving the strength and wellness needs of our student-athletes. We launched the Big Blue STEM Scholars project funded by a $1M grant from the National Science Foundation. And students, faculty and staff, in partnership with the broader community, surpassed our giving goal for the WSOY Community Food Drive, one of the largest single-day food drives in the country.
As we look at all that we have accomplished, we feel blessed to be part of a University that enriches students' lives and strengthens communities. And we are filled with gratitude for each of you and the support you provide that allows us to deliver on the promise of excellence in education for our students.
Yours in leadership,
Dean A. Pribbenow, Ph.D.
President, Millikin University
April 10, 2026 | 1 p.m.
Presidential Inauguration
Dr. Dean PribbenowSave the date for a significant moment in the history of Millikin University as we celebrate the inauguration of our 17th President, Dr. Dean Pribbenow. This occasion marks not only a new chapter for our institution, but also an opportunity for all of us to gather in affirmation of Millikin’s mission, our cherished traditions and the shared vision that will shape our future. We look forward to commemorating this historic occasion with you.
Visit millikin.edu/inauguration to learn more.
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Director of Wrestling
Ryan Birt
Women's Flag Football Head Coach
Joan CataneseThe momentum continues with the launch of two new women's sports: Women's Wrestling and Women's Flag Football, both launching in 2026/27. Women's Flag Football Head Coach Joan Catanese and Director of Wrestling Ryan Birt are poised to guide these emerging programs while strengthening the tradition of Big Blue excellence.
Together, these efforts signal a future for Athletics that is defined by growth, opportunity and ambition. With expanded programs, state-of-the-art facilities and strong leadership, Millikin is well-positioned for future success.
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MILLIKIN STUDENTS HAVE THE DRIVE TO CHANGE THE WORLD.
YOUR SUPPORT GIVES THEM THE CONFIDENCE TO MAKE IT HAPPEN.Our students consistently tackle meaningful, real-world projects thanks to Millikin's outstanding Performance Learning opportunities.
From wildlife disease research and data analytics work with local governments to public health simulations and contemporary theatrical productions, our students engage in real challenges and real decision making. Millikin students graduate equipped with a robust set of skills and empowered to lead with success and purpose. Here are some of our best and brightest, ready to take the world by storm!
Carissa Guerrier ’26
Exercise Science Major (Pre-Physical Therapy)
“Your generosity allows students the opportunity to attain dreams that may not have been possible. You may not realize how great an impact is made, but your donations change lives. They not only give hope, but they give students a place to call home. And for that I say, with the deepest level of gratitude, thank you.”
Kyler Griggs ’26
English Major, Creative & Professional Writing Concentration
Oakley Tate ’26
Finance and Accounting Double Major
Audrey Soetermans ’26
Commercial Music Major -
WHEN YOU BELIEVE IN BLUE, YOU CHANGE LIVES.
Every breakthrough begins with belief — belief that determination matters, that creativity can solve problems and that committed individuals can make a difference. Millikin students carry that belief into everything they do: advancing healthcare, inspiring audiences, leading teams and serving communities.
When you give, you share in that belief. You provide the resources, guidance and encouragement that students need to turn ideas to impact, questions into answers and potential into action.
More than 2,500 donors gave their support to Millikin University and its students in Fiscal Year 2025, including over 450 new donors. Each gift is a reflection of their belief in a brighter future and the willingness to support our students who are working to build it. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you.
We hope you’ll continue to Believe in Blue — and help shape the world our students are eager to transform.
Total Raised
$9.725MDuring Fiscal Year 2025
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2026 marks a major milestone: 125 years of Millikin University inspiring, educating and building community. We’re planning a year full of celebrations to cherish our past, commemorate our present and celebrate our future.
Lots of fun, memories and new Millikin moments await! Be on the lookout for special events, inspiring stories and ways to connect with our community. We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
