We have an exciting opportunity Thursday, Aug. 22, to start off the new semester with some intentional time together as colleagues followed by a new first-year student convocation celebration. Please mark your calendars and don’t forget to wear your UIS blue!

The schedule includes:

• 3-4:30 p.m.: Faculty & Staff AY24-25 Kickoff information session, Student Union Ballroom. Like last year, this event will feature forward-focused updates from the Chancellor and other members of Cabinet. Bring a donation for the UIS Cares Food Pantry or School Supply Stop to be entered into a drawing for UIS swag. This event will be recorded for those who cannot attend; a link will be provided on Orbit later this month.
• 4:45-5:45 p.m.: First-Year Student Convocation, Sangamon Auditorium. Following the Kickoff meeting, faculty and staff should meet at 4:45 p.m. on the north patio of the Student Union. We will then process to the Public Affairs Center for Student Convocation, which begins at 5 p.m. This is a casual event, so no regalia is required. The Division of Student Affairs has put a lot of hard work into making this renewed take on convocation a fun and engaging opportunity to welcome new students into the UIS community.
• 6-9 p.m.: Party on the Quad. Join students, faculty and staff for a fun evening of music, food and entertainment. Please note that this event is being held in lieu of the annual Welcome Picnic.

These events are designated “approved” activities; with prior approval and operations permitting, non-exempt civil service employees may attend without loss of pay.