Happy Birthday, GSU!

GSU's 53rd

On July 17, 2022, Governors State University will turn 53 years old!

Founded in 1969 as an upper-division regional public university, GSU’s founders created the university to be the premier institution for returning and transfer students. In fact, GSU began with a mission to provide an academic home for those “traditionally underserved by higher education.” 

Since its inception, GSU has transformed higher education, and forty-five years after its founding, the university made another big change. In 2014, GSU accepted its first freshman class, while also opening its first residence hall and launching an athletic program, along with new, state-of-the art science and nursing labs. 

 In 2020, GSU welcomed its sixth president, making history again with a Black woman president leading the university.

Today, GSU continues to lead through excellence, offering its students exceptional academic programs, services, and activities. As both a minority serving institution and an emerging Hispanic serving institution, GSU is one of the most diverse universities in the region in terms of both students and faculty.

In addition to transforming students’ lives through education, Governors State University remains a center for culture and innovation within the region, frequently partnering with community organizations, state and local government, entrepreneurs, small businesses, major corporations, and economic development organizations to tackle societal challenges and advance economic growth in the region.

The rich history, cultural amenities, and a beautiful, serene campus where the prairie meets the city all contribute to making GSU the incredible institution it is today, and one of the best universities in the state.

Please join us on July 13 for a birthday party and Park Forest Nights.