Education Commons^™

2019 Annual Report, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

No abstract provided.

Imsa360: Fall 2018, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Buoyed from the energy and success of hosting the 14th Annual International Student Science Fair (ISSF) this past summer and outside recognition by niche.com as the #1 Public High School, the 2018-2019 Academic year is moving at a robust pace.

Excerpt: From the President

Imsa360: Spring 2018, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

IMSA is a leader in educating and developing a diverse STEM pipeline of creative, ethical, and scientific innovators for Illinois and the world. We aspire to become a recognized global leader and catalyst in equity and excellence in STEM teaching and learning, innovation and entrepreneurship.

Excerpt: From the President

Imsa360: Fall 2017, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Welcome to the 2017-2018 school year! It’s a special academic year in that we begin the school year with a full budget! Over the past three years, our colleagues in public schools (K-12), who are under the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), began their school year with a full budget while IMSA and the rest of the universities, which are under the Illinois Board of Higher Education (IBHE), began and operated most of the past two years without a full budget.

Excerpt: From the President

Imsa360: Winter 2017, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

IMSA is nurturing a strong and diverse pipeline of innovative leaders for Illinois and the world, preparing them to solve the most complex social problems of our time.

Innovation is part of IMSA’s legacy. In fact, IMSA alumni have been driving the technology sector over the past decade. Andrew Baptist ‘94, Greg Dhuse ‘99, Dusty Hendrickson ‘01 and Ethan Wozniak ‘99 are responsible for 212 of 350 patents generated by data storage leader, Cleversafe. Sam Yagan ‘95 relocated his tech company, ShopRunner, to Illinois and also co-founded OkCupid, SparkNotes, Techstars Chicago and Corazon Capital. Jessica Droste Yagan ‘95, CEO of …

Imsa360: 2016, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

About ten years ago I tried to explain to my wife what made IMSA such an important, life-changing place for me. That explanation turned into a 329 page novel (my first published young adult novel), that I still think only scratched the surface of what makes IMSA such a wondrous, rare, and crucial place.

Excerpt: From the President

Imsa360: Fall 2015, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

As I begin my second year as IMSA’s President, I consider it not only a privilege to serve, but also a responsibility to lead well. Effective leadership is a critical element of our future success and is inspired by our Board of Trustees, senior administrators, faculty leaders and student leaders. Our leadership also extends beyond our campus in Aurora to the strong voices and ideas from across Illinois and beyond — including alumni, parents, and community leaders.

Excerpt: From the President

Imsa360: Spring 2015, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

As most of you know, I have been President of IMSA for only seven months, not yet a full year. I feel like I am beginning to get to know IMSA better and better each month, and what I am learning continues to excite me and encourages me to spread the word to others about this amazing place. That is why this issue is going out to hundreds of new readers for the first time, and I welcome the many new superintendents, educators, and friends who will hopefully learn more about IMSA, just as I have these past few months. …

Imsa360: Fall 2014, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Excellence and Equity

As I write this letter I have now been at IMSA for nine days, though by the time you are reading this I will have been here for almost 90 days. I am excited about what I feel I can offer, and of course a bit anxious about the many things I have yet to learn. But leadership and risk taking are necessary at every great organization and I am confident that the fine people of the IMSA community will work with me to achieve continued excellence for our students and programs on the Aurora campus, across …

Imsa360: Spring 2014, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Pay It Forward

The Greek playwrights wrote of the beautiful selfless concept of "paying it forward" as early as approximately 300 B.C. Later, Ben Franklin and Ralph Waldo Emerson also wrote of its honor. The actual phrase "pay it forward" likely was first penned by the author Lily Hardy Hammond in 1916.

Saying "thank you" to someone who gave you a gift of money or kindness, but who does not expect or even wish to be repaid, by returning the favor to someone else...thus "paying it forward"...is alive and well at IMSA. This issue of 360 showcases several acts of …

Imsa360: Fall/Winter 2013, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

One of the best things about IMSA that never changes is that we continue to change, not “change for change’s sake,” but change to keep learning, leading and innovating, change grounded in who we are and who we aspire to be. One area of big change on the horizon relates to upgrading our facilities.

For some time now, we have coped with an aging campus, an academic building much of which has not been renovated since the 1970s (before IMSA opened and occupied the then- closed facility), and residence halls in serious need of major rehabilitation. Thankfully, the State of …

Imsa360: Spring 2013, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Having recently announced my retirement from IMSA, I am writing my last letter for IMSA360 to share my appreciation and admiration for the engagement and support of the entire IMSA community, which includes each and every reader of this publication. During the past six years, our collaborative work has produced some exceptional results as evidenced by our students’ success in national and international competitions, publications, presentations and leadership conferences. In addition, other highlights include our institutional recognition- especially the 2009 Intel Star Innovator Award-our growing donor base, the expansion of programs and services for Illinois students and teachers, a growing …

Imsa360: Fall/Winter 2012, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Last year we celebrated IMSA’s 25th anniversary. With the commencement of our 212 Seniors, we closed this incredible chapter of IMSA’s history knowing that these young men and women have joined a long line of IMSA alumni whose life work has made an important, positive impact. While the past 25 years have seen IMSA graduates become great leaders in new fields and new careers, they have also seen even more IMSA alumni making less famous but equally as important contributions.

In addition to our Seniors, we also “graduated” more than 3,547 students and 727 teachers whom we served last year …

Imsa360: Spring 2012, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

We are all still basking in the glow of a wonderful 25th Anniversary Gala attended by more than 250 dear friends and supporters of IMSA. It has been truly inspiring to hear alumni, alumni parents and staff proudly reflect on our first 25 years as well as share extraordinary excitement in anticipation of our next 25.

For the past two and a half decades, IMSA faculty and staff have excelled at “igniting and nurturing” creative, ethical, scientific minds through inquiry based activities, demanding rigor and close relationships. In turn the students have continuously helped us learn how to teach – …

Imsa360: Winter 2012, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Last year we celebrated IMSA’s 25th anniversary. With the commencement of our 212 Seniors, we closed this incredible chapter of IMSA’s history knowing that these young men and women have joined a long line of IMSA alumni whose life work has made an important, positive impact. While the past 25 years have seen IMSA graduates become great leaders in new fields and new careers, they have also seen even more IMSA alumni making less famous but equally as important contributions.

In addition to our Seniors, we also “graduated” more than 3,547 students and 727 teachers whom we served last year …

Imsa360: Summer 2011, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Just prior to becoming IMSA’s second President in 2007, I served on IMSA’s Strategic Planning Team. The plan we developed was big and bold, and when first presented, there was some concern that it would collapse under its own size. However, we dreamed big and intended to demonstrate that we could, to paraphrase Walt Disney, both dream it and do it! In my first year as President, I was determined that our plan would become a dynamic, actionable document that would make an enduring difference. Four years later, I am proud to say that due in large part to the …

Imsa360: Spring 2011, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

When I speak to parents, students, educators and legislators about the concept of “career readiness,” I emphasize that IMSA is preparing learners for careers that do not yet exist. Through learning experiences based on imagination and inquiry, IMSA students, whether enrolled in our residential program or in our statewide enrichment programs, learn to pursue compelling questions of interest, work collaboratively, conduct investigations and communicate findings. In the words of our Standards of Significant Learning, students learn to “think about thinking,” “extend and integrate thought,” and “construct questions which further understanding, forge connections and deepen meaning.” In short, they learn how …

Imsa360: Winter 2011, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

In this issue of IMSA360, which doubles as the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education’s 2011 annual report, we chronicle a journey none of us wanted but many of us now embrace. The tentacles of our ALS story and attention to “orphan diseases” stretch far and wide, supported by our donors, driven by our students, staff and community partners, and inspired by our Principal and Vice President for Academic Programs Dr. Eric McLaren. His story – our story – calls us to advance the human condition through education, research, advocacy and action. While we cannot dial back the clock and …

Imsa360: Summer 2010, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

IMSA’s 22nd class graduated in June 2010. Members of this class will always be special to me because we began our IMSA journey together in 2007 with a mixture of exhilaration and trepidation, pride and panic, hope and humility. We knew that we were privileged to join this innovative community, a distinguished international leader and exemplar in mathematics and science education. From day one, we understood that the words of the mission statement about “advancing the human condition” were meant for us, and we all had the formidable responsibility to make a tangible difference to our colleagues, friends and to …

Imsa360: Spring 2010, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

IMSA’s mission is to “ignite and nurture creative, ethical scientifi c minds that advance the human condition.” That’s a tall order, and we don’t apologize for that! Many of society’s challenges in this century will be addressed by leaders in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). IMSA strives to develop leaders who will use their talents in STEM to work collaboratively to make positive social impacts.

At IMSA, we create conditions that enable students to develop and demonstrate their leadership skills. This issue highlights the many opportunities students have to expand their leadership capacities through advocacy, service, entrepreneurial ventures and …

Imsa360: Winter 2010, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Thanks to our visionary partners and supporters, IMSA is pushing the boundaries of education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). Their resources have had a powerful impact on campus and also have expanded our capacity to design and deliver innovative STEM programs to educators and students in Illinois and beyond.

In this issue, you will learn how IMSA and the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education, our 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity, work with educational, business and entrepreneurial partners to re-imagine innovative models for STEM education. For example, corporate support for IMSA’s Energy Center is enabling a project that involves IMSA …

Imsa360: Summer 2009, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Many will measure IMSA’s work to “ignite and nurture creative, ethical scientific minds that advance the human condition” by the contributions of our alumni. I am proud to say that we pass that rigorous test with flying colors. Sixty percent of our alumni earn undergraduate degrees in science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM) compared to the national average of 33 percent. As undergraduate and graduate students, they attend the most highly selective colleges and universities in the nation, earning numerous academic, research and leadership accolades including Fulbright, Marshall, National Science Foundation, Rhodes, Truman and Siebel Scholarships. Throughout their careers, alumni …

Imsa360: Spring 2009, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

As a teaching and learning laboratory for imagination and inquiry, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy enables students to pursue their own compelling questions and identify and solve real-world problems. In these pursuits, they learn to collaborate with each other and the best minds around the globe. This process fosters integrative learning and enhances critical thinking, creativity, problem solving and teamwork.

Our feature stories in this issue of IMSA360 take you on an amazing journey that demonstrates how IMSA students turn their passions, talents and knowledge into action. Under the guidance of inspiring faculty, staff and world experts, students have …

Imsa360: Winter 2009, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

In just over two decades, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® (IMSA) has become one of the premier institutions of its kind in our state, nation and world. I can proudly say that Intel, a global leader in science and technology innovation, endorses this assertion by naming IMSA the nationwide winner of Intel’s Schools of Distinction Star Innovator Award. This award is presented annually to only one educational institution that has “a comprehensive program incorporating innovative and effective use of technology, engaging parents and the community in students’ education, fostering development and teamwork and delivering achievement of high academic standards.” …

Imsa360: Summer 2008, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Often when I speak to parents, students and educators, I share one of my core beliefs: there is no ceiling on human potential. Though perhaps a bit overstated, as I fully realize my limited singing ability elicits monumental groans and sends animals scurrying for cover, it is true that often when we think an individual has reached his or her “potential,” we are astounded by a new accomplishment. As I look back on my first year as IMSA’s second president, I am humbled and amazed by IMSA’s truly unlimited potential for advancing the human condition and living into our aspiration …

Imsa360: April 2008, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

Message From the President

As a long-time educator in Illinois, I have admired IMSA’s role as an international leader in developing talent and leadership in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). I am honored and privileged to now serve as IMSA’s second president.

This first year, I have been meeting with educational leaders and policy makers across Illinois as well as IMSA students, parents, faculty, staff, alumni and donors to solicit ideas and determine our critical needs. From these conversations, I am convinced that IMSA’s service to students, teachers and schools is more relevant and important than ever. The challenges …

Imsa360: Winter 2008, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

This issue of IMSA360 addresses an important theme – IMSA and its networks and partners are making an enduring impact on education. By bringing together the best minds from all walks of life and by combining our resources, we accelerate the delivery of innovative programs that make a difference in the lives of students and teachers throughout Illinois and beyond.

In this issue, you will learn how IMSA and the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education, our 501(c)(3) not-for-profit entity, work with educational, business, government and entrepreneurial partners to develop, test and share innovative ways to enhance teacher skills and …

Annual Report 2006-2007, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

What Is the IMSA Fund?

The IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit corporation that accepts and distributes gifts and grants from the private sector to support IMSA's mission and work. These contributions support programs and services for IMSA students and staff, other Illinois students, and educators in Illinois and beyond; activities for IMSA alumni and parents; and IMSA Fund operations including donor cultivation and recognition.

Corporations, foundations, small businesses and individual donors, including board members, alumni, current and alumni parents, staff members and friends, make possible numerous opportunities that otherwise would not occur. Gifts to the …

Annual Report 2005-2006, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

"Since its inception, the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA) has provided the citizens of the state of Illinois with a world-class academy for the educational advancements of students with aptitude for mathematics, science and technology fields and solid learning and leadership potential," Nunez said.

At Argonne, Nunez has led research and development efforts in a variety of areas including Nanotechnology, Material Sciences, Physics, Higher Energy Physics, Mathematics and Computing Sciences and Biosciences.

In addition to leading the Board and serving as an impressive role model for students and alumni, he also has remained one of IMSA's most vocal champions …

Annual Report 2004-2005, Imsa Fund

IMSA Fund Reports

The promise of the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy® is now practice as visionary IMSA graduates forge new frontiers in Illinois and beyond in science, technology, engineering, mathematics and other fields, and as more and more students, educators and schools in our state, nation and world benefit from IMSA programs, products and services.

The Academy's reach, impact and success is due in no small part to the support it receives from the IMSA Fund for Advancement of Education - thanks to you.

You and other donors help in various ways, Annual gifts of all amounts provide essential operating support for …