2.17.25

Dear Faculty, Staff and Students —

Late last week, the federal Office for Civil Rights published a “Dear Colleague Letter” outlining the current administration’s interpretation of the scope of the 2023 Supreme Court Ruling in Students for Fair Admissions vs. Harvard. The Education Department has said it will issue additional guidance soon and that compliance is a condition of receiving federal funding. 

2.10.25

Happy Monday,

1.29.25

Dear students, faculty and staff:

UIS leadership has been carefully monitoring the flurry of executive orders announced at the federal level over the past several days, and we have been collaborating with the U of I System and colleagues to best understand how these announcements may affect our university community.

Below are updates on areas of greatest impact to our students, faculty and staff:

1.27.24

Good afternoon, UIS–

1.13.24

Happy Monday, UIS!

1.7.25

Dear Faculty and Staff:

We are honored to welcome the Illinois House of Representatives to UIS on Wednesday, Jan. 8, for the ceremonial opening of the 104th General Assembly. During this historic event, all 118 House members will take their oaths of office in Sangamon Auditorium. This marks the ninth time UIS has had the privilege of hosting this prestigious ceremony.

To ensure a smooth experience for the House members, their guests and other dignitaries, parking adjustments will be necessary:

Good afternoon,

I am excited to announce that we are planning another on-campus Professional Development Retreat for faculty and staff as part of our Rise initiative. This retreat will take place on Friday, Jan. 31, 2025, and will focus on Workplace Communication. Registration opens today and closes on Jan. 15, 2025.

12.9.24

Happy Monday, UIS!

12.3.24

Dear colleagues —

Dr. Ken Kriz, who has served as interim vice chancellor for finance and administration since May 2023, has shared his intention to transition from his interim leadership role effective August 2025 and return to his position as a distinguished professor of public administration in the College of Public Affairs and Education.

12.2.24

Dear Students, Faculty and Staff,

As the holiday season draws near, I’m reminded of the many things that make UIS so special—our traditions, our stories and our incredible community.

I recently had the opportunity to join students from the UIS Baking Club to decorate cookies and share holiday traditions. Together, we reflected on the unique stories that unite us as Prairie Stars. These moments remind me that while our individual journeys may differ, our shared hopes and values bring us together as one community.