Branden Delk

Biography

Branden Delk, a Bolingbrook, IL native, brings over 17 years of experience in higher education to his role at Illinois State University’s College of Engineering. A second-generation college graduate, Branden holds a Bachelor of Science in Marketing from Eastern Illinois University and a Master of Arts in Communication Studies from Northern Illinois University. He is currently pursuing a doctorate in Higher Education Administration at Illinois State University.

Branden’s passion for working with students began during his graduate studies, where he discovered his calling while teaching Introduction to Public Speaking. This pivotal experience inspired his career in student success, with roles in retention, student services, and academic advising at multiple institutions.

Before joining the College of Engineering, Branden served in Illinois State University’s Office of Admissions, first as a Senior Admissions Counselor and later as the Admissions Coordinator for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion. In addition to his administrative work, he has taught the first-year student success course, Thriving in College, Career, and Beyond (IDS 128), and remains active across campus as a member of the President’s Diversity and Inclusion Council (DIAC).

In his role as Director of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Student Success, Branden is dedicated to fostering a student-centered culture at the College of Engineering. His vision is to cultivate a strong sense of belonging and build a collaborative community among faculty, staff, students, and campus partners, both internal and external.