Krystal Geist is the associate director of alumni and donor engagement.

What do you like about your job?

Working in advancement, I get the opportunity to meet many alumni and community members who are passionate about UIS. My favorite part of my job is getting to know all the wonderful people who support our university. Everyone has a unique story, and it’s very inspiring to see how UIS has impacted so many lives. It makes me proud to work for such a great university.

Do you have any side projects or personal goals you are working on?

I believe we never stop learning and growing. Because of this, I decided to continue with my education this fall and began the MBA program here at UIS. I have wanted to pursue additional education for more than 10 years and am excited about the opportunity UIS has provided. Working full-time and being a mom will make this journey different from where I was in life the last time I went to school, but I believe I am up for the challenge.

What do you like to do outside of work?

My family and I love to go “glamping”! We have a camper and a seasonal campsite not far from Springfield. We spend nearly every weekend from April through October enjoying time outdoors with family. I also love to watch my son play baseball!

What is your ultimate travel destination and why?

If I could travel anywhere, it would be to Ireland. My great-great-grandparents immigrated to the United States from Ireland. My grandmother would tell me stories about the family and always got me excited about my heritage. I also love looking at images of the landscape there and would enjoy an opportunity in the future to see it in person.

Getting to Know You is recurring feature in the Chancellor's Newsletter to highlight our many talented UIS employees.