Tough times are again here for Illinois’ child welfare agency. But an operation at the University of Illinois Springfield is trying to help. Students can go through a simulation lab that’s part of a child advocacy studies program run by Betsy Goulet, who enlists role players.

“We work with the standardized patients at SIU School of Medicine. We don’t use scripts, but they respond in character to what is said.

This month is Black History Month, a federally recognized celebration of African American history and culture. 

A variety of events are scheduled in the Springfield area — especially at the University of Illinois Springfield and Lincoln Land Community College — highlighting the observance that began Feb. 1.

Tuesday, Feb. 1- Step Afrika!

A storm that could dump nearly 20 inches of snow in some parts of central Illinois will move through the area this week. A winter storm warning will begin at 9 p.m. Tuesday and last through 6 p.m. Thursday. Rain will change to sleet and freezing rain Tuesday night and then turn to snow. Areas near Interstate-72 could see the highest snowfall amounts.

The University of Illinois Springfield has canceled on ground classes Wednesday. Remote or online classes are NOT canceled. The Shield testing for COVID-19 at UIS is closed Wednesday.

Due to pending inclement weather, UIS daytime and evening on-ground classes are canceled for Wednesday, February 2. Online/Remote classes are not canceled. Blended classes which are not meeting on campus on Wednesday, February 2, are not canceled.  In addition, Liberal Leave Policy for employees is in effect for tomorrow.

A decision about on-ground classes scheduled for Thursday will be made late tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday, February 2).

Executive Director of Student Support Services Bethany Bilyeu has been named the 2021 Employee of the Year at the University of Illinois Springfield. She was honored during a virtual reception on Feb. 1, 2022.

Before announcing the winner, UIS Interim Chancellor Karen Whitney thanked the eleven Employees of the Month who were nominated for the award.