The Mission of our College has transcended time. My grandparents first started the school (known then as The Commercial Art School of Chicago, then later as the Ray-Vogue School of Design) following the ideals that:

The purpose of the School is twofold – first to fit those, blessed with artistic feeling, for creative work in one of the many fascinating and remunerative fields of practical Art, and secondly, to supply trained artists to serve the highest interests of the business enterprises of this, the great merchandising and industrial nation of all time.*

Now, as we approach 100 years of providing education in the applied and creative arts, we stand as an institution of higher education that continues to follow these same ideals. Our current Mission Statement expresses the belief that our College offers a place where students can develop their creativity and acquire the skills and knowledge to pursue their careers.

I am honored to be a part of such an institution which has built its reputation not only on providing a quality education, but also on preparing individuals for their life’s work. Here students learn the necessary skills to enter into their chosen careers by:
• learning from our skilled faculty – established professionals in their own fields;
• utilizing industry-standard resources available throughout the campus; and
• keeping a career-focused approach to their education.

We believe an individual’s life's work extends beyond the workplace. To enter into life’s work means to become an informed and engaged member of society, a critical thinker, and one who reaches professional fulfillment through a career based on talent, skill, and creativity. Our community incorporates these outcomes everyday as we help to prepare our students for the future. I look forward to you joining in our tradition.

David W. Ray
President, The Illinois Institute of Art — Schaumburg

*An excerpt from an article written to the student body from Mr. William Francis Ray, President of The Commercial Art School – an article glowing with fine feeling of coordination and interest typical in the school.