Real Impact stories spotlight the real difference people, programs and partnerships — across the system — make on the state’s economic, social and cultural well-being. For more, meet transfer student Lauren Angus.
As a recent University of Illinois Chicago graduate who finished her bachelor’s degree in December, Kayla Pilgrim still advocates for students and change in Illinois.
“My experiences have deeply shaped my understanding of how to create meaningful change, from grassroots advocacy to engaging directly with policymakers,” Pilgrim said. “They’ve strengthened my ability to communicate effectively, build strategic partnerships and navigate complex systems.”
Each year, University of Illinois System Day at the Capitol welcomes members of the system’s legislative advocacy network, Illinois Connection, to Springfield to spotlight education and economic development, among other key topics. Some 200 alumni, students and other advocates connected with elected officials and their representatives — sharing their unique perspectives and highlighting the vital role of the U of I System — at the 2025 event on Feb. 26.
A high school graduate at age 16 who finished her undergraduate work at UIC at age 18, Pilgrim knows her head start is important for a fulfilling and lucrative career. According to the system’s most recent economic impact report, students see $5.20 in future earnings for every $1 they invest in a U of I System education.
Knowing college would be a worthwhile investment, Pilgrim worked ahead in high school. She fast-tracked her education by taking Advanced Placement and dual-credit classes in high school, attending community college and then transferring to UIC though the Transfer Admission Guarantee.
Illinois Connection’s work directly impacts students and the state economy. For example, advocates help the U of I System gain annual state funding, which keeps tuition affordable and provides financial aid through Illinois’ Monetary Award Program (MAP). Almost 22,000 U of I System students rely on MAP grants.
‘She gets out there, makes herself available’
“Being young in political and advocacy spaces often means having to prove yourself twice as hard. But I also recognized my age could be an advantage,” said Pilgrim, who served as director of communications for the Student Advocacy Coalition at UIC.
“I leaned into preparation and education. I took every opportunity to develop my skills through internships, fellowships and hands-on work. The more I shared my voice, the more confident I became in its impact.”
Theresa Thomas and others from External Relations and Communications at the system, guided by Director of Advocacy and Strategic Events Marissa Brewer, support Illinois Connection members and students at all three U of I System universities as they engage with state leaders and other change makers.
“Kayla’s brilliance shined through when we did events, whether it was with the Illinois Legislative Latino Caucus Foundation or volunteering with the Illinois Legislative Black Caucus Foundation,” said Thomas, the system’s advocacy and community relations coordinator. “She gets out there, makes herself available.”
Sharing authentic student experiences
Pilgrim’s age helps fuel her passion for advocacy work.
“Being a young person at the state capitol means being able to share authentic student experiences, such as what it means to be a first-generation student navigating higher education or how financial aid policies directly affect our opportunities,” Pilgrim said.
“At the state capitol, my goal was to ensure lawmakers gained a deeper understanding of our experiences and felt compelled to act on our behalf.”
At the 2024 Day at the Capitol, Pilgrim’s advocacy prowess and her ability to make connections helped land her an internship at the Office of State Representative Abdelnasser Rashid.
As she considers next steps, including exploring Master of Public Administration programs, Pilgrim is serving as an advisor in the Gen Z-driven Youth250 Bureau of Made By Us.
“As I continue my journey in advocacy, my goal is to make civic engagement a fundamental part of people’s lives. These skills and insights will be extremely useful as I pursue further education and a career focused on building a more inclusive, responsive democracy,” Pilgrim said.
Illinois Connection elevates issues that impact higher education and the greater good of our state. It is open to alumni, students and any other interested parties. Become an advocate today.
