Rob Kerr
Executive Director of Innovation & Opportunity

Rob Kerr serves as the Executive Director for UIS Innovation and Opportunity. His background includes over 20 years in higher education and economic development. His previous positions include Director of Continuing and Professional Education at UIS; Deputy Director for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Technology at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity; Dean of Enrollment and Career Programs and Registrar at Richland Community College; and Director of Career and Technical Education at the Illinois Community College Board. In addition, Rob served as an adjunct faculty member at Benedictine University Springfield for 18 years.

Ben Hage
Director of Innovate Springfield

Ben Hage is a dynamic ecosystem builder, entrepreneur, and the Director of Innovate Springfield at the University of Illinois Springfield, where he bridges the gap between academia and entrepreneurship. Ben is experienced as a co-founder and nearly a decade of fostering innovation and startup growth. Currently pursuing his PhD in Higher Education Administration at Illinois State University, he combines academic rigor with practical experience to cultivate the next generation of business leaders.

Email: nelha2@uis.edu

Benjamin's LinkedIn Profile