IMSA Launches $140M Vision to Transform Student Experience as It Celebrates 40 Years of Impact
Aurora, IL — As part of its 40th anniversary celebration, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy announced a $140 million initiative to replace its aging residence halls and reimagine the student experience on campus. More than $134 million in public and private support has already been secured toward a transformational vision that will strengthen Illinois’ pipeline of future innovators, entrepreneurs, scientists, and leaders through the construction of new residence halls and a student center designed to foster curiosity, creativity, belonging, collaboration, and student well-being.
“This moment represents both a celebration of IMSA’s first 40 years and a commitment to the next 40,” said Dr. Evan Glazer, President of IMSA. “The effort goes beyond rebuilding facilities. It’s about creating an environment where students feel supported, connected, and inspired to pursue what is possible.”
Historic Public Investment in Illinois’ Future
Under the leadership of Governor JB Pritzker, Deputy Governor Martin Torres, Deputy Governor Andy Manar, and a host of legislative champions, the Illinois General Assembly approved $110 million in capital funding, combined with $15 million from prior legislation, bringing total public investment in new residence halls to a historic $125 million.
“While in Springfield, my colleagues and I worked extremely hard to champion this funding into our state budget, because we know students deserve to thrive in an environment where they feel safe, heard, and comfortable,” said state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora. “Our students are our future, so it’s important to provide them with the resources they need to succeed inside and outside the classroom. IMSA is not just renovating a student center and residential halls, they’re investing in their students’ well-being and academic success. I’m excited to see IMSA build an environment where powerful young minds can thrive.”
Silent Campaign Momentum Fuels Student-Centered Vision
Complementing the state’s investment, the IMSA Fund has launched a $15 million philanthropic campaign, already nearing $9 million strong, to support the construction and activation of a new student center.
The quiet phase of the campaign was guided by a dedicated Capital Campaign Committee of volunteers, led by IMSA alumnus Sam Yagan ’95, who served as honorary chair.
Yagan and fellow IMSA alumna and spouse, Jessica Droste Yagan ’95, were also among the earliest leadership donors, contributing $1 million to help launch the effort and inspire others to give.
“IMSA expanded our world in ways we couldn’t have imagined, surrounding us with people who challenged how we think, what we believe is possible, and how we can make a difference,” said the Yagans. “Investing in these new residential and student spaces is our way of giving back to Illinois for the transformative education we received and ensuring future students across the state have that same life-changing opportunity to grow, connect, and lead.”
The campaign also includes a record-setting $5 million gift from alumnus Joe Beda ’93 and his wife, Rachel, the largest in IMSA history.
“It is hard for me to find the words to express what IMSA has meant to me and how it has shaped me as a person. It was the right place for me at a pivotal time in my life, both academically and socially,” said Beda. “I’m grateful I can pass that gift on to other young, bright students in Illinois.”
Together with more than 75 additional donors, these leadership gifts have helped establish a strong foundation and position the campaign for a successful public phase.
Campaign Public Phase Launches Alongside 40th Anniversary Celebration
Building on strong early progress, IMSA is launching the public phase of its campaign to close the remaining $6 million gap needed to complete the new student center, a central component of its $140 million vision to transform the residential experience.
“While the historic public investment provides the foundation, our vision will only be fully realized through philanthropic support,” said Glazer. “Over the past four decades, we have learned that student success depends on more than exceptional academics. Students thrive when they feel cared for, connected to one another, supported in their well-being, and part of a community where they truly belong,” he added.
This next phase invites alumni, families, faculty, staff, students, and corporate partners to play a direct role in shaping spaces that foster connection, curiosity, and care. Philanthropic support will help bring this vision to life through activation of the student center spaces, including:
- Family connection areas with welcoming accommodations and shared spaces that help families stay connected, celebrate milestones, and feel at home on campus
- Student Wellness Center, providing medical care, mental health support, wellness resources, and temporary care rooms to help students thrive academically and personally
- Advanced Technologies Lab for students to explore AI, robotics, virtual reality, quantum computing, and other emerging technologies
- SkillQuest Lab for earning industry-recognized credentials and developing career-ready skills
- Cultural kitchens that strengthen belonging, celebrate diversity, and bring students together through shared meals and experiences
- Career and alumni engagement hub where students connect with alumni mentors, explore career pathways, and build networks for future success
- Student-led innovation spaces designed for collaboration, creativity, and leadership development
- Recreation and outdoor gathering spaces that promote well-being, connection, reflection, and access to nature and sustainable design
The public phase unfolds alongside a year-long celebration of IMSA’s 40th anniversary, creating meaningful opportunities for the entire IMSA community to come together in support of this milestone effort. Through over a dozen signature events, including the inaugural IMSACon Alumni Conference, a birthday celebration with students, and gatherings for alumni, families, and campus stakeholders, IMSA will celebrate its legacy while inviting broad participation in building its future.
“As part of Vision 2033, our roadmap for IMSA’s future, we are leveraging public investment and private philanthropy to create a transformational student experience centered on care, connection, and curiosity,” said Dr. Evan Glazer, President of IMSA. “Together, we are creating a residential community where students don’t just live—they belong, thrive, and develop the skills, relationships, and sense of purpose needed to shape the future.”
Since its founding in 1986, IMSA has served as Illinois’ flagship public residential STEM academy, providing unparalleled opportunities for students regardless of background. As it enters its fifth decade, this initiative ensures IMSA remains at the forefront of innovation, access, and excellence.
The campaign was announced during a live event on July 18. Additional campaign information can be found here.