Dr. Ryan Taylor received his MA in Environmental Studies from UIS in 1998 before earning a PhD from Oregon State. Now a professor at Purchase College, Dr. Taylor applies both social and natural science research methods to his public policy studies. He has enjoyed a successful career as an environmental planner, policy-maker, and manager for every level of government. This allows him to bring real-world experiences to the classroom, exposing his students to practical challenges they will face as they pursue their environmental careers.

Marc Miller was the Director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.  He was a policy advisor for Governor Quinn, and has extensive involvement with conservation programs throughout the state. He has served as the Lieutenant Governor’s liaison the Illinois Rivers Coordinating Council, has worked on watershed projects in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and was the watershed organizer for the Prairie Rivers Network from 1999-2004.

Hometown: Bogota-Colombia

Why did you choose this degree at UIS?

UIS provides the best internship opportunities related for my field. I like that UIS has the option to pursue a graduate certificate in Geographic Information Systems, which is highly desired in the environmental field.

What is your experience like as a graduate student?

Hometown: Girard, IL

Why did you choose this degree at UIS?

After earning my B.A. in Environmental Studies from UIS in 2019, I wanted to continue to explore my environmental interests. I chose this concentration because it offered opportunities to build and apply valuable skills, such as using Geographic Information System (GIS).

What is your experience like as a graduate student?