blog navigation

University of Illinois System News
Read the latest University of Illinois System news from the Office of External Relations and Communications.
All Results

blog posts

  • RIsing to the Challenge, a podcast, with university iconic images

    Podcast Episode #3: Stressed to the Nines

    Oct 6, 2020 3:00 pm

    The third episode of the "Rising to the Challenge" podcast series discusses COVID-19 stress, featuring an emergency room physician at UIC and a social work professor from Urbana-Champaign.

  • RIsing to the Challenge, a podcast, with university iconic images

    Podcast Episode #4: Tech It or Leave It

    Nov 2, 2020 3:15 pm

    The fourth episode of the "Rising to the Challenge" podcast series discusses the technology behind COVID-19 mitigation, featuring the UIUC Vet Med lab, modeler Nigel Goldenfeld, Grainger College of Engineering Dean Rashid Bashir, and UIS's Brian Rives who has been transporting samples to and from Springfield.

  • RIsing to the Challenge, a podcast, with university iconic images

    Podcast Episode #5: COVID trickle-down effects

    Nov 20, 2020 8:15 am

    Host Gwen Macsai explores some of the ripple effects of the COVID-19 pandemic in Episode 5 of Rising to The Challenge. She visits with UIC family doctor Evelyn Figueroa who started a food pantry in her clinic and has seen a 50% rise in need since the coronavirus hit. UIUC Engineering Professor Bill King talks about the lightning-fast development of the Rapid Vent and potential new courses that may result like "engineering in an emergency," UIS Prof Anne-Marie Hanson explains the impact of COVID waste on the environment, and Macsai takes a trip to the UIUC horse farm to find out what they did when 24 horses were about to give birth and the pandemic left them severely short-handed.

  • RIsing to the Challenge, a podcast, with university iconic images

    Podcast Episode #6: Goodbye 2020!

    Dec 11, 2020 10:15 am

    Host Gwen Macsai visits with a computer science professor who impersonated Yoda, Elton John and Princess Leia (among others) when she spiced up her Zoom classes by dressing in costume. This last episode of the Rising to the Challenge series also features the story of two University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign students who 3D printed over 750 masks to distribute to people with disabilities. We’ll check in to see how the pandemic has affected the finances of the state of Illinois and last but hardly least, we have a rousing visit with the director of the UIUC marching band that can neither march nor band. So what do the Marching Illini do? Stay tuned to find out.

  • U of I seal

    Policies restrict intimate relationships, require job-candidate disclosure

    May 21, 2020 10:30 am

    The University of Illinois Board of Trustees on Thursday approved two new policies, one that prohibits certain workplace-related intimate relationships among faculty, staff and students, and one requiring that job-candidate finalists disclose past findings of sexual misconduct or sexual harassment.

  • A woman holding books, with the phrase "Prairie Promise" overlaid

    Prairie Promise to cover tuition and fees for first-time, first-year UIS undergrads

    Oct 4, 2023 2:45 pm

    The Prairie Promise will use a combination of MAP grant awards, UIS scholarships and awards and AIM HIGH grant funds to cover the cost of tuition and fees. To qualify, students must be eligible to receive MAP grant funding, which requires a demonstration of financial need.

  • Masked female and masked male show masked chancellor exterior of mobile lab trailer

    President honors leaders of COVID-19 lab development

    Aug 27, 2021 10:00 am

    University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen on Friday honored two people who are among the primary leadership behind the system’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, presenting them with the Presidential Medallion. 

  • President Timothy L. Killeen

    President Killeen: Higher education 'engine ready to drive us forward'

    Jun 13, 2023 2:45 pm

    In this op-ed for Fortune, alongside the The Harris Poll, U of I System President Tim Killeen shows that higher education provides the economic and societal infrastructure we require in fast-changing times.

  • President Killeen with Prime Minister Chen Chien-jen

    President Killeen meets Taiwan prime minister, discusses partnership

    Mar 13, 2023 12:30 pm

    A delegation led by University of Illinois System President Timothy Killeen met with Taiwan Prime Minister Chen Chien-jen and others to discuss further partnership and cooperation between the system and Taiwan in Chinese-language education and high-tech fields.

  • President Tim Killeen portrait

    President Killeen touts the U of I System's innovation agenda

    Dec 6, 2021 4:00 pm

    President Tim Killeen recently spoke with CEO Magazine on the trajectory of the University of Illinois System, its innovation agenda, and its collective impact on economic vitality and the public good.

  • President Tim Killeen headshot

    President Killeen welcomes all to spring semester

    Jan 29, 2021 10:00 am

    In a massmail to students, faculty, and staff, University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen welcomed everyone back for the spring 2021 semester.

  • President Killeen welcomes students to 2018-19 academic year

    Aug 30, 2018 10:00 am

    Welcome to our 2018-19 academic year and thank you for choosing the University of Illinois System.

  • Killeen on bench

    President Killeen welcomes students to 2019-20 academic year

    Aug 27, 2019 10:30 am

    The following massmail was delivered to students at our three universities.
    Dear students: It is a pleasure to welcome you to the start of the University of Illinois System's 2019-20 academic year!

  • Killeen

    President Tim Killeen calls on lawmakers to invest in higher education

    May 13, 2019 9:15 am

    U of I System President Tim Killeen calls on lawmakers to provide capital funding for repairs, renovation and construction at all public universities throughout Illinois.

  • Rendering of future DPI

    Pritzker Foundation donates $10 million to DPI

    Dec 15, 2020 8:15 am

    The Pritzker Foundation announced today it is giving $10 million over the next five years to The Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) to support and develop promising and more diverse tech talent in Illinois. 

  • Concept image of new building complete with lots of windows

    Pritzker, stakeholders unveil design for Discovery Partners Institute

    Sep 23, 2022 1:30 pm

    Located on a one-acre site southwest of the Loop, the new DPI headquarters will provide more than 200,000 square feet of office, classroom, lab, and event space for DPI and its university and industry partners.

  • Barbara Ransby at podium

    Professor Barbara Ransby named MacArthur Chair

    Jul 30, 2020 10:00 am

    University of Illinois at Chicago Professor Barbara Ransby has been named a John D. MacArthur Chair, University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen announced Thursday.

  • Rendering of DPI development

    Program connects key Chicago leaders, Israeli entrepreneurs

    Jul 24, 2018 2:45 pm

    The Discovery Partners Institute (DPI), an initiative led by the University of Illinois System to drive economic development through innovation, wrapped up its first international program Tuesday.

    The IDEAS (Israel, Digital, Arts, Entrepreneurs, and Science) Immersion program connected five teams of entrepreneurs from Tel Aviv University (TAU) with leading Chicago investors, business founders and corporate executives, helping the Israeli entrepreneurs to grow their networks and refine their business plans over the two-week visit.

  • DPI rendering

    Progress and new partners for Discovery Partners Institute

    Jun 19, 2018 10:00 am

    At a press conference today, University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen, Illinois Governor Bruce Rauner, and Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel were joined by other public officials and U of I leaders for a progress report on the Discovery Partners Institute (DPI) initiative announced last October.

  • U.S. Capitol

    Public universities seek support for student, equity, research and capital initiatives

    May 21, 2021 9:30 am

    A letter was sent to Illinois’ federal legislators today by presidents of the state’s public universities, seeking support in federal legislation investing in infrastructure and families. Proposals endorsed by presidents would promote student affordability, research and innovation, diversity and social equity initiatives and bricks-and-mortar improvements.

  • books in library

    Public Voices Fellowship

    Aug 18, 2020 9:15 am

    Executive Vice President and Vice President for Academic Affairs Barb Wilson announced the second cohort for the system-wide Public Voices Fellowship.

  • Former high school principal Jason Leahy in outdoor portrait with daughter Emma, tree leaves as background

    Real Impact: AP training equips high school teachers for stronger programs

    Jan 11, 2023 8:30 am

    During summer 2023, the University of Illinois System will launch Advanced Placement Summer Institutes at University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) to help increase the number of AP teachers across Illinois.

  • Maddie Saenz at her high school graduation with her dad, mom and sister

    Real Impact: Experiences take focus off community college transfer myths

    Jan 22, 2024 8:00 am

    Since 2022, students transferring from community colleges in Illinois have had guaranteed admission to University of Illinois System universities in Urbana, Chicago, and Springfield if they meet requirements. 

  • Lura Buckley, University of Chicago and One Million Degrees graduate

    Real Impact: Giving back tops driven alum’s list of successes

    Aug 11, 2022 1:00 am

    University of Illinois System alumni contribute to the economy and to society by working as well as volunteering, mentoring and supporting others. Their public university education instilled in them the desire to give back.

  • Photo illustration with a Narcan device and an Apple Vision Pro

    Real Impact: Grants fund life-saving training with an innovative tech twist

    Feb 23, 2024 8:00 am

    Stopping an overdose using naloxone requires quick action in tough situations. “With VENT, we’re creating training that mimics hectic moments so people can feel prepared,” said Scott Barrows, University of Illinois College of Medicine Peoria clinical assistant professor. 

  • Four young women practice CPR on female and Black and brown mannequins

    Real Impact: Heart-focused agency advances neighbor helping neighbor

    Feb 17, 2023 8:00 am

    Illinois Heart Rescue teaches bystander CPR, automated external defibrillator (AED) use and other emergency essentials in large part because of state funding. This spring, the University of Illinois System again is advocating for the program’s annual funding as part of its annual state budget request. 

  • Harumi Barron in University of Illinois Chicago gear spreads her arms in triumph with a cityscape behind her

    Real Impact: Hope Chicago delivers wide welcome to students, families

    May 31, 2023 3:00 pm

    For now, the program is available to about 4,000 students at five Chicago high schools – many from historically underrepresented groups – plus one parent or guardian each. Student support covers tuition and fees, room and board, books and a laptop, plus a yearly stipend. 

  • Young 4-Hers show the fresh green vegetables at their community stand

    Real Impact: Innovation, compassion feed Dixon Springs neighbors

    Mar 22, 2023 5:00 pm

    State funding helps make Dixon Springs Agricultural Center a magnet for research, information, and interaction. Funding also supports innovative and environment-friendly tactics like high tunnels that benefit the region. 

  • Researchers and interns circle around a male leader with grasses and trees in the background

    Real Impact: Institute seeks funding bump for environment-focused mission

    Mar 6, 2023 7:00 am

    The system is asking the state for a 12 percent boost for Prairie Research Institue in the next budget cycle, increasing the $14.8 million budget to about $16.5 million. PRI receives essentially the same annual contribution from the state as it did when it became part of the U of I System in 2009.

  • Engineering associate professor Rafael O. Tinoco in the UIUC hydrosystems lab

    Real Impact: Mexican educator, researcher an inspiration near and far

    Nov 21, 2023 8:00 am

    Illinois Mexican & Mexican-American Students (I-MMÁS) founder, director, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign professor Elvira de Mejía recruited civil engineering associate professor Rafael Tinoco. ... “When I-MMÁS started, we invited faculty, staff, and students to join the group. Rafael became an active friend of I-MMÁS,” de Mejía said. “He is an excellent role model for many students and professionals.”

  • From left, Angie Lewis displays a piece of Pyrus, Gabe Tavas displays a Pyrus plank, and Brian Cheng displays a ukelele with parts made from Pyrus

    Real Impact: Nature-loving maker converts kombucha waste into wood proxy

    Dec 13, 2022 1:00 pm

    If Pyrus replaced wood in a host of applications, more trees would remain in Earth’s rainforests. That’s an essential step for getting climate change in check, something the U of I System pushes for progress on every day.

  • Stich Me Apparel owner Brenda Nelson portrait

    Real Impact: New program boosts business for diverse companies

    Aug 9, 2022 12:45 pm

    Beginning in September, Stitch Me Apparel owner Brenda Nelson will be part of the first cohort of the Diverse Supplier Development Program.

  • Aijah Welch sits on porch steps wearing her gray Digital Scholars t-shirt

    Real Impact: Once-reluctant Chicago area teen raises her hand for tech

    Oct 4, 2022 9:30 am

    Digital Scholars helps high school and college students build confidence and skills while connecting them with Chicago’s dynamic tech community. The program represents one facet of the future-focused work happening at Discovery Partners Institute (DPI), part of the University of Illinois System.

  • Hancock County farmer Bryan Stevens in a cowboy hat in front of a barn

    Real Impact: Partnering to bridge the digital divide reaps rural benefits

    Aug 29, 2023 10:15 am

    “When farmers succeed, their communities prosper,” said Jay Walsh, who oversees the University of Illinois System-led Illinois Innovation Network, which is helping unite key partners in the broadband mission.

  • Andrea Aguirre Camorlinga in the lab

    Real Impact: Research without borders delights Mexican exchange student

    May 5, 2023 3:45 pm

    Students from Mexico studying here, as well as Mexican-American students doing research internships in Mexico, receive educational support and mentoring as part of the new Mexican & Mexican-American Students initiative (I-MMÁS).

  • Two professionally dressed women visit at an event

    Real Impact: Robust collaborations activate diverse vendors' successes

    Jul 6, 2023 9:00 am

    The Diverse Supplier Development Program welcomes minority-, woman-, persons with disabilities-, and veteran-owned businesses at no cost to participants. The diversity procurement program lives out the system’s commitment to creating a more inclusive Illinois economy.

  • University of Illinois Springfield students with an instructor in a hospital setting

    Real Impact: Robust program turns out nurses willing to answer the call

    Dec 19, 2023 8:00 am

    The University of Illinois Chicago College of Nursing trains healthcare experts at all three University of Illinois System universities. The program in Springfield is the newest with students gaining in-depth, hands-on experience at Springfield Memorial Hospital.

  • Greenville's Dr. Kelsey Hopkins talks about healthcare with Girl Scouts

    Real Impact: Rural doctor and his region thrive because of unique training

    Oct 30, 2023 8:00 am

    The Rural Medical Education Program, part of University of Illinois Chicago's College of Medicine Rockford, is just one of the initiatives across the University of Illinois System that helps close healthcare gaps in the state. 

  • Teacher Nikki Patterson at her wedding posing for a portrait with her new husband

    Real Impact: Southern Illinois educators unite for more milestones

    Jan 10, 2024 8:00 am

    The U of I System is partnering with community colleges statewide to connect educators and administrators with public university transfer pathways for their students, especially to system universities in Springfield, Chicago and Urbana. 

  • We Hear You CEO and COO

    Real Impact: Start-up shows what happens with the right support

    Aug 11, 2022 2:00 pm

    Through collaboration-centered innovation, start-up and spin-off companies related to the University of Illinois System generated $838 million in added income for the state economy in fiscal year 2021.

  • Two Synchrony interns and two employees pose in front of an inspirational sign that says driven

    Real Impact: Synchrony culture empowers next-gen innovators

    Sep 28, 2022 10:30 am

    Synchrony is a University of Illinois System partner in fueling innovation. Leaders discussed growing that partnership at Synchrony Chicago during the U of I System’s 2022 state tour.

  • Large group photo of 2023 Advanced Placement Summer Institute participants at University of Illinois Springfield

    Real Impact: Teachers gain know-how for more AP classes in Illinois

    Mar 19, 2024 9:15 am

    The U of I System again is offering Advanced Placement Summer Institutes to equip high school teachers with stronger programs to prepare students for college.

  • Eli and Linsday Cook and their dog Colby Jack at their Springfield home

    Real Impact: UIS alum stays to help fuel employment pipeline

    Aug 10, 2022 3:45 pm

    Coming full circle, 2017 University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) graduate and Northwestern Mutual financial advisor Eli Cook now recruits and trains the next generation of interns.

  • Two-photo collage includes a photo of Robert Lane Sr. and son Robert Lane Jr. in front of a U of I System banner that says Altogether Extraordinary. The second photo is a portrait of Charlotte Medina.

    Real Impact: Universities' Salute events strive to keep top students in Illinois

    Nov 14, 2022 1:45 pm

    Robust U of I System events and other interactions give students from historically underrepresented groups information and experiences to help them see how they’d fit in at University of Illinois universities in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago and Springfield.

  • Melody and Marvin Slaughter at the younger sister’s UIC graduation

    Real Impact: University of Illinois Chicago siblings make advocacy a way of life

    Aug 13, 2023 5:00 pm

    Melodie and Marvin Slaughter are among the younger Illinois Connection alumni who use their experience and influence to ensure legislative support for the U of I System’s work in societal equity, higher education, economic development, and more. 

  • 56.4% of goal

    Record fundraising success in FY2018

    Sep 21, 2018 9:30 am

    The University of Illinois System and the University of Illinois Foundation today announced recordfundraising for fiscal year 2018 with $498.5 million in new business, comprised of new gifts, grants, pledges and deferred commitments. The total for the fiscal year that ended June 30 is a $212.2 million, or 75 percent, increase from FY2017, and eclipses the all-time high of $434.9 million set in FY2013.

  • iconic images from the three universities

    Reflections of the season

    Dec 15, 2022 4:00 pm

    President Tim Killeen delivered a massmail message today about inclusion to the entire U of I System community.

     

  • U of I seal

    Reflections on George Floyd tragedy

    May 31, 2020 2:00 pm

    President Tim Killeen and Executive Vice President Barb Wilson sent a massmail today to students, faculty, staff, alumni and friends reflecting on the George Floyd tragedy.

  • Scott Rice, General Counsel | University of Illinois System

    Rice named University of Illinois System’s general counsel

    Dec 21, 2023 12:00 pm

    Scott Rice has been named the University of Illinois System’s general counsel, pending completion of the background check process and approval of the board of trustees at its Jan. 18 meeting. Rice will serve in an interim role, effective Jan. 1. Rice, a member of the university counsel’s staff since 2005, succeeds Tom Bearrows, the longest-serving university counsel in the system’s history who is retiring at the end of this month after more than two decades of service. 

  • female researcher walking through lab with test samples

    Rivian donates $500,000 to support SHIELD Illinois testing

    Mar 25, 2021 10:15 am

    The University of Illinois System received a $500,000 donation from Rivian to support the recently opened SHIELD Illinois COVID-19 testing lab at Illinois State University (ISU), which is located within five miles of the electric automaker’s factory in Normal.