In 1867, a teacher training school was formed in a leaky railroad boxcar in Blue Island, Illinois. Over the next 150 years, the school grew from a rural county certificate-granting program to Chicago State University (CSU). During the 1930s, CSU was at the forefront of preparing teachers for diverse learners, and by the 1980s, the institution expanded its influence by partnering with international universities. At its inception, there were 13 pupils, and by the mid-1990s, the university had a student body exceeding 8,500 students. As the school grew, so did its influence. Now in the 21st century, CSU has become a hub for education, science and technology, and health professions, offering baccalaureate through doctoral degrees. In addition to academics, the institution has a rich history of student activism, athletics, and cultural activities.