Hometown: Chicago, Illinois
Major: Mathematical Sciences
Future Plans: Earn a master’s degree

Rafael Lopez is a student assistant at Brookens Library, a learning assistant for the Mathematical Sciences Department and president of the Campus Child Advocates student organization at the University of Illinois Springfield. “I chose UIS because I thought its size would be a good fit for me,” he said. “What I like the most about UIS is that it is a little bit like a small town. It is a very welcoming community.” Following graduation from UIS, he plans to earn a master’s degree and eventually a doctorate.

Leadership is lived at UIS. Every day.