Tuesday, December 20, 2005

WUIS changing weeknight line-up in January

Public Radio station WUIS 91.9-WIPA 89.3 will change its weeknight program line-up starting January 2. Jazz programming will move back to later hours, to be followed by news overnight from the BBC. Classical music programming will air earlier in the evening. Read more>>

Monday, December 19, 2005

Pre-Law Center offers LSAT prep program

UIS' Pre-Law Center is offering a primer for anyone interested in taking the LSAT exam and applying to law school. Four day-long sessions will be held Tuesday, January 10, through Friday, January 13, in PAC conference room F.

The course -- including a basic overview of the law school application process and two actual LSAT exams administered under simulated conditions -- is open to students in all majors, as well as to the general public. Cost is $190; pre-registration is required before Wednesday, January 4. Read more>>

Wednesday, December 14, 2005

48 Hours to highlight Innocence Project role in murder investigation

The segment of the CBS television program 48 Hours to be aired at 9 p.m. (CST) Saturday, December 17, will include a story about the 1986 murder of Dyke and Karen Rhoads that will feature an interview with private investigator Bill Clutter, director of investigations for the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project at UIS.

While the TV program will focus on a group of Northwestern University journalism students who studied the case, it was Clutter’s investigation that resulted in a federal judge’s decision to order the release of Randy Steidl, convicted of the crime in 1987 and sentenced to death.

The segment will include Clutter’s discussion of his investigation that developed evidence disproving a key prosecution witness’s description of the crime scene. Read more>>

UIS, UPI Local 4100 reach contract agreement

UIS and the University Professionals of Illinois Local 4100 have reached a contract agreement that includes a salary increase of 3 percent for all bargaining unit members, effective January 1, 2006.

The three-year agreement ratified December 12 received a 90 percent approval rating by the 150 members of the three bargaining units represented by the local. Read more>>

Monday, December 12, 2005

History graduate wins outstanding master's thesis award

Patrick Pospisek, who graduated in December 2004 with a master’s degree in History, has won the UIS Outstanding Master’s Thesis award for the 2004-05 academic year. His thesis was titled “Inspired Self-Interest: Motivating Factors in the Relocation of the Illinois Seat of Government, 1836-1845.”

Mark Danenhauer received a Special Merit award for his thesis titled “Determining an Optimal Degree of Local Involvement in the Management of a National Park.” Danenhauer graduated from UIS in May 2005 with a master of science degree in Environmental Sciences.

Pospisek's and Danenhauer's works were chosen from among 11 theses and projects nominated by graduate departments at the university. All 11 students will be honored at a reception during the spring semester. Read more>>

WUIS receives gift to support new studio facilities

Public radio WUIS 91.9 FM has received a pledge from long-time listeners and members Michelle and Guerry Suggs that will serve as the major component in funding a new performing arts studio for the station.

The Suggs’ $25,000 gift will support the technical components of the 900-square-foot studio, which WUIS expects to open early in 2008.

“We are incredibly thankful for Michelle and Guerry’s generosity,” said WUIS General Manager Bill Wheelhouse. “The performing arts studio is a major component in our goal to bring even more local music and voices to the airwaves in the coming years.” Read more>>

Monday, December 05, 2005

UIS will award honorary degree

UIS will award an Honorary Doctor of Letters to Gilbert N. Stein of Springfield, the man who helped elevate Dairy Queen to worldwide status in the 1960s.

As the first president of IDQ, Stein became known as a visionary in the business world. Stein, 92, will receive the honorary degree from UIS Chancellor Richard Ringeisen and UIS Provost Harry Berman during a private ceremony on December 16.

“The university wants to recognize Mr. Stein for his perseverance in overcoming difficult times, technological challenges, and changing society and market cultures,” Ringeisen said. “In doing so, he made significant contributions to the world of business.” Read more>>

Thursday, December 01, 2005

Student receives UPI scholarship

Emma Hurley, a senior in the Capital Scholars program at UIS, has received a $1,000 scholarship from the University Professionals of Illinois Local 4100. The UPI scholarship is a one-time award made in the spring semester to a new or continuing full-time student.

Hurley is an honor student majoring in Psychology. Read more>>

Theater season continues with “Student-Directed Scenes”

“Student-Directed Scenes,” the second production in the 05-06 season of the Theatre Program at UIS, will be presented in three performances scheduled for Friday-Sunday, December 9-11, in the Studio Theatre. Friday’s and Saturday’s performances will be at 8 p.m.; the Sunday matinee will be at 2 p.m. The performances are free.

Student-directors chose scenes from seven plays with authors ranging from Neil Simon to Tennessee Williams. Read more>>

Tuesday, November 22, 2005

UIS expands opportunities for study abroad

The Global Experience Program at UIS has expanded its opportunities for study abroad with the signing of three new student exchange agreements.

The addition of the University of Colima in Mexico, Saitama University in Japan, and Murdoch University in Australia brings the number of international institutions with which UIS has formal affiliations to eight. Those who are interested in being an exchange student next fall should apply by February 1. Read more>>

Thursday, November 17, 2005

Scholarship donors and recipients honored

The donors and recipients of scholarships for 2005 at UIS were honored at a luncheon held on campus November 16. See a list of scholarships and the students who received them>>

Visual Arts Gallery seeks donations for silent auction

UIS' Visual Arts Gallery will host its Annual Silent Auction fundraiser Monday, November 28, through Thursday, December 1. Artworks will be on display for silent bids each day in the gallery and the event will conclude Thursday evening with a reception and final bidding from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Donations of artwork in any medium will be accepted through November 23. Read more>>

Tuesday, November 15, 2005

Armstrong scholarship recipients announced

Three graduate students in UIS' Public Affairs Reporting program – Crystal Lindell, Rebecca O’Halloran, and Ann Sanner – have received James E. Armstrong Scholarships for 2005.

Given in memory of the late publisher of the Illinois State Journal and the Illinois State Register, predecessors of the State Journal-Register, the scholarships are awarded to PAR students who have demonstrated strong interest and potential in the field of government and political reporting. Read more>>

Friday, November 11, 2005

UIS to present original play, “Degrees of Lucky”

“Degrees of Lucky,” a one-act play by Judith Schlessinger Dyer, will be presented at 7 p.m. Monday, November 28, in the PAC Studio Theatre.

The play tells the story of two breast cancer survivors who meet after years of corresponding by e-mail. Dyer, who died on November 6, 2005, had battled a recurrence of her own breast cancer over the past two and a half years. She wrote “Degrees of Lucky” in a UIS playwriting class. This will be its first public performance. Read more>>

ACCESS 4 marks 20 years on the air

ACCESS 4, Springfield’s public access television station operating from the UIS campus, will observe its 20th year of service to the community with several special retrospective programs. Segments of “Celebrating 20 years of Public Access Television” will air Sunday, November 13, at 4:30 p.m.; Monday, November 14, at 8:30 p.m.; Wednesday, November 16, at 5:30 p.m.; and Friday, November 18, at 9 p.m. Read more>>

Thursday, November 10, 2005

Faculty member receives Fulbright grant to teach in Bangladesh

Mohammed Shahidullah, an adjunct faculty member for programs in UIS' Colleges of Public Affairs and Administration and Liberal Arts and Sciences, has received a Fulbright Scholar grant to teach and do research with BRAC University in Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Shahidullah, who also works as a state demographer for the Illinois Department of Public Health, will spend six months teaching biostatistics and doing research in program evaluation on HIV/AIDS prevention at BRAC’s John P. Grant School of Public Health. Read more>>

Criminal Justice honor society inducts 15 at UIS

Fifteen new members were inducted into the Epsilon Chi Chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, the national criminal justice honor society, during ceremonies held November 8 at UIS. Alpha Phi Sigma, the only national honor society for criminal justice majors, recognizes the academic excellence of undergraduate and graduate students. Read more>>

Wednesday, November 09, 2005

Lecture examines floodplain conservation and biodiversity

“The Paraná River Floodplain and Conservation: Sustaining Biodiversity in Brazil” is the topic of a lecture to be presented from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, November 16, in PAC conference room F. UIS is presenting the program as part of its Emiquon Field Station initiative. Featured speaker will be Dr. Sidinei Thomaz from Maringá State University, Brazil.

Brazilian environmental agencies have recognized the ecological importance of the Upper Paraná and its floodplain, and three conservation units have been created to protect the area. Unfortunately the region is also suffering a number of ecological impacts. Read more>>

UIS among sites for national debut of controversial film

UIS will present two debut screenings of the controversial film Wal-Mart: The High Cost of Low Price. The first is at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, November 15, in PAC room 3 C. This screening is sponsored by the Institute for Legal and Policy Studies at UIS. United Students against Sweat Shops will sponsor a second screening at 3:30 p.m. Thursday, November 17, in PAC room 3F.

Both screenings are free and open to the public; however space is limited and advance reservations are required. For more information and to reserve a spot>>

Tuesday, November 08, 2005

UIS music groups to present Fall Showcase Concert

Music groups at UIS will present their annual Fall Showcase Concert beginning at 7:30 p.m. Friday, November 18, in the Studio Theatre. The program will feature the UIS Band, Chorus, Chamber Orchestra, and World Percussion ensembles performing a wide range of musical genres.

Highlights from the chorus will include a 16th century madrigal, a Gershwin classic, a barbershop piece, and folk songs. The orchestra's performance will range from the French Baroque to tangos from Argentina. The band’s program will feature a march and selections from traditional and contemporary jazz charts. Read more>>

Monday, November 07, 2005

U of I students may apply for Brundage scholarships

Applications for the annual Avery Brundage Scholarship competition for U of I students who excel in both academics and athletics are being accepted now through Tuesday, January 31, 2006. Full-time students, including incoming freshmen, graduate, and transfer students, may apply. Read more>>

Wednesday, November 02, 2005

UIS to host discussion of the media and innocence cases

“The Media and Innocence Cases,” a presentation by Maurice Possley, investigative reporter with the Chicago Tribune, will be presented from 6:15 to 8:15 p.m., Tuesday, November 8, in UHB 2024.

Possley was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize in 2000 and 2001 for his work with other reporters on prosecutorial misconduct and the death penalty. Former Governor George Ryan cited these reports as playing a significant role in his decision to empty Death Row in 2003. Read more>>

Ambrose receives IPCSA Exemplary Service Award

Tom Ambrose, senior training coordinator in the Institute for Legal and Policy Studies at UIS, has been named recipient of the Exemplary Service Award presented by the Illinois Probation and Court Services Association. This award is presented annually to an individual in recognition of his or her dedication and commitment to furthering probation and court services.

Michael Torchia, president of the IPCSA Executive Board and director of the Sangamon County Adult Probation Department, noted in making the presentation that Ambrose's "diligent efforts have helped to advance training programs into the 21st century." Read more>>

Monday, October 31, 2005

Program examines lessons to be learned in hurricane aftermath

The U of I Alumni Association and the UIS College of Education and Human Services Alumni Council will present “Katrina, Rita, and Their Aftermath – Human Service Disaster - What can we learn?” from 5:30 to 7 p.m. Tuesday, November 10, in PAC conference room H.

Discussion will examine implications that these and other recent disasters have, for those in the helping professions as well as for other concerned citizens. Featured speakers will be Mike Townsend, UIS associate professor emeritus of Social Work, and Michelle Boonaerts, a recent graduate of the Social Work program who was among the first responders providing social work services to victims of Hurricane Katrina at the Houston Astrodome. Read more>>

UIS to host Civic Engagement Forum

UIS and Illinois Campus Compact will co-sponsor the fifth in a six-part series of Civic Engagement Forums from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday, November 10, in PAC conference room C/D. Education administrators, faculty, and students engaged in service learning, as well as anyone with an interest in civic engagement, civic responsibility, or service learning are especially encouraged to attend.

Civic Engagement Forums are designed as a “dialog of democracy” about actions that can be taken, individually and collectively, to focus attention on the importance of civic learning and civic engagement to Illinois’ educational system. Read more>>

WUIS to air documentary on Johnny Cash

Public radio WUIS 91.9/WIPA 89.3 FM will air a four-part documentary on the late country music legend Johnny Cash at 7 p.m. November 7 through 10. "Cash, The Legend: A Four-Part Radio Special" is produced by Joyride Media and features biography, music, and commentary. Read more>>

UIS Music to present percussionist Ronnie Engel in concert

Percussionist and avant garde artist Ronnie Engel will appear in concert at 8 p.m. Saturday, November 12, in Brookens Auditorium. For much of the past 27 years Engel has been involved with the drumming and arts of Africa, Asia, Brazil, Cuba, India, Indonesia, Ireland, the Middle East, and Native America. Read more>>

WUIS adds Speaking of Faith to Sunday morning lineup

On November 6, Public Radio WUIS 91.9/WIPA 89.3 will add Speaking of Faith – an exploration of belief, meaning, ethics, and ideas in America – to its weekend programming. The show will air Sunday mornings at 7 a.m. Hosted by journalist and former diplomat Krista Tippett, the discussion will cover a wide range of subjects, from human interest topics to tougher issues. Read more>>

Taste of UIS examines “Integrity in Leadership”

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will present “Integrity in Leadership,” the third program in this fall’s Taste of UIS: Distinguished Faculty/Alumni Lunchtime Lecture Series, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, November 17, at Maldaner’s Upstairs, 222 South Sixth St., Springfield. Reservations should be made no later than November 10. Featured speaker will be U of I President B. Joseph White. Read more>>

Friday, October 21, 2005

Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series concludes with “Lincoln and the Right to Rise”

Renowned author Gabor S. Boritt will deliver the third and final lecture in the 2005 Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 26, in Brookens Auditorium. The theme of this year’s series is “Lincoln and Economic Opportunity.”

Boritt is founder and director of the Civil War Institute at Gettysburg College and received a Congressional appointment to serve on the Lincoln Bicentennial Commission. His presentation will examine “Lincoln and the Right to Rise.” Read more>>

Wednesday, October 19, 2005

Visual Arts Gallery to present “Digital Environments”

“Digital Environments,” works by Michael Miller, will be on display at UIS' Visual Arts Gallery from November 1 through 23. The gallery will host an evening with the artist on Thursday, November 10, featuring receptions and an artist’s talk.

Miller is chair of the Visual Arts Program at UIS. His work combines the appearance of digital imagery with painting and printmaking processes, producing hybrid works of luminous color. Read more>>

Tuesday, October 18, 2005

UIS Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series continues with “Lincoln’s Whigs”

Michael F. Holt, prominent author and scholar of 19th century political history, will deliver the second program in the Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series beginning at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 20, in Brookens Auditorium. Holt’s topic will be “Lincoln’s Whigs: Expanding Economic Opportunities.” The theme of this year’s lecture series is “Lincoln and Economic Opportunity.” Read more>>

Professor to present Einstein centennial lecture

Charles Schweighauser, UIS professor emeritus of Astronomy/Physics, English, and Environmental Studies, will speak on “Einstein’s Insights: How They Shaped Our Modern View of the Universe” at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, November 3, in the Carnegie Room at the main branch of Lincoln Library, 326 S. Seventh, Springfield.

Schweighauser will deliver this non-technical lecture in observance of the 100th anniversary of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. Read more>>

Friday, October 14, 2005

UIS Theatre season opens with Oedipus the King

Sophocles’ tragedy Oedipus the King, long considered one of the world’s greatest plays, will open the 2005-2006 World Tour of Drama season for the Theatre Program at UIS. The timeless story of murder, incest, and fate will be presented in six performances: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, November 4-6 and 11-13, in the PAC Studio Theatre.

For cast and ticket information, and a synopsis of the plot>>

UIAA to host Alumni Celebration Dinner

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will sponsor an Alumni Celebration Dinner on Friday, November 4, starting with a reception at 5:30 p.m. in the Sangamon Auditorium lobby. Alumni, friends of the university, and members of the community are invited to attend.

Alumni awards will be presented and the evening will also feature reminiscences on 35 years of campus life, displays of campus memorabilia, and musical entertainment. For information and to register>>

Thursday, October 13, 2005

28th annual International Festival -- "Spirit of Diversity"

UIS will host the 28th annual International Festival, “Spirit of Diversity,” from 4 to 8 p.m. Sunday, October 30. The popular festival features cultural performances and a cultural bazaar complete with exhibits and food booths. Read more>>

Faculty member publishes new book on gay law and politics

Jason Pierceson, assistant professor of Political and Legal Studies at UIS, is the author of Courts, Liberalism, and Rights: Gay Law and Politics in the United States and Canada, a new book published by Temple University Press. Reviewers have called it “passionate scholarship at its best.” Read more>>

Wednesday, October 12, 2005

Pre-Law Center hosts discussion on bill to save war widow

UIS' Pre-Law Center will host its annual Fall Forum from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m., Tuesday, October 18, in PAC conference room G. This year’s forum will feature Christina Rogers and Bill Houlihan, aides to U.S. Senator Richard J. Durbin, in a discussion titled “Illinois Lawmakers Push Bill to Save War Widow from Deportation.” Read more>>

UIS events mark Domestic Violence Awareness Month

UIS will host a screening of the film Once Were Warriors, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 19, in Brookens Auditorium. Sponsored by the UIS Women’s Center and Women’s Issues Caucus with support from the Inter Club Council Board, both the film and a preceding Pay Equity Bake Sale beginning at 6 p.m. in Brookens Concourse are presented in observance of national Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Read more>>

UIS to offer second session of “Spanish for Cultural Literacy”

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences at UIS will offer the second session of “Spanish for Cultural Literacy,” an online personal and professional development course, from October 17 through December 17.

The eight-week session will introduce essential vocabulary and provide opportunities to practice Spanish in a wide variety of practical situations. Read more>>

Monday, October 10, 2005

Dungey named University Scholar for 2005

Keenan Dungey, UIS assistant professor of Chemistry, has been named University Scholar for 2005-2006. He is one of 13 faculty members, and the only one from UIS, chosen for this award honoring and rewarding outstanding teachers and scholars at the three U of I campuses. Read more>>

UIS holds annual Faculty Recognition Luncheon

Outstanding accomplishments of UIS faculty were recognized at the thirteenth Faculty Recognition Luncheon, held October 6. The annual event recognizes scholarly achievements of current and emeriti faculty during the previous calendar year in such areas as research, published articles and other writing, creative works, grants, book reviews, and professional presentations.

See a list of faculty honored at this year's luncheon>>

WUIS to host “Wait Wait . . . Don’t Tell Me!”

“Wait Wait...Don’t Tell Me!®,” NPR’s popular news quiz, will record a live show at UIS' Sangamon Auditorium beginning at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 27. “Wait Wait…" is a modern twist on old-time radio quiz shows, mining NPR news stories for its questions.

For more information, including how to get tickets>>

Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series features prize-winning authors

Dr. Allen C. Guelzo will begin the annual Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series Thursday, October 13, with “Lincoln’s Declaration of Economic Independence.” The theme of this year’s series is “Lincoln and Economic Opportunity.”

Additional speakers and their topics are Dr. Michael F. Holt, “Lincoln’s Whigs: Expanding Economic Opportunities,” on Thursday, October 20, and Dr. Gabor S. Boritt,“Lincoln and the Right to Rise” on Wednesday, October 26.

All lectures in the series are at 7:30 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium. Read more>>

Wednesday, October 05, 2005

WUIS to air tribute to John Lennon

On Sunday, October 9, WUIS will air a special tribute to music icon John Lennon on what would have been his 65th birthday.

Beginning at 5 p.m., the program includes Beatles performances from the Ed Sullivan show; Lennon talking about peace, family, and art; and fans' recollections on hearing the news of his death. Read more>>

Tuesday, October 04, 2005

UIS to host examination of HipHop culture

African American Studies at UIS will host “In the Mix: Cross-Dialogues Regarding HipHop Culture,” Friday and Saturday, November 4 and 5, at Southeast High School and on the UIS campus.

Activities will include panel presentations, breakout discussions, performances, films and critiques, a fashion show, an awards banquet, and a teacher workshop on “Using Contemporary Youth Culture in the Classroom.” Read more>>

Fall Brownbag Concert to feature three ensembles

The Fall Music Brownbag at UIS -- featuring performances by the UIS Band, UIS Chamber Orchestra, and UIS Chorus – will begin at noon Friday, October 14, in PAC conference room C/D. Selections will include vocal music in Swahili, a barber shop quartet, Korean folk music, English madrigals and string music, a work by Bach, and the UIS School Song. Read more>>

UIS to host seminar on domestic violence

The Women’s Issues Caucus at UIS will host a seminar on preventing domestic violence at 11 a.m. Monday, October 17, in PAC conference room G. Featured speaker will be Vicki Crompton, co-author of the book Saving Beauty from the Beast: How to Protect Your Daughter from an Unhealthy Relationship. The seminar is presented as part of a week-long series of events promoting awareness of domestic violence issues. Read more>>

Tuesday, September 27, 2005

Taste of UIS looks at history of Lincoln Home and neighborhood

The next program in the Taste of UIS Lunchtime Lecture Series will be “Here I Have Lived: The History of the Lincoln Home and Neighborhood,” beginning at noon on Wednesday, October 19, at Maldaner’s Upstairs, 222 South Sixth St., Springfield. Featured speaker will be Tim Townsend, UIS alumnus and a historian at the Lincoln Home historic site. Read more>>

Wednesday, September 21, 2005

Crawford named WUIS Statehouse bureau chief

Public Radio WUIS 91.9-WIPA 89.3 has named Sean Crawford to be the new Statehouse bureau chief for the station and the Illinois Public Radio news network. Crawford has been a Statehouse reporter for WUIS since 1997. He covered local news on the Morning Edition broadcasts for two years, has been a frequent panelist on State Week in Review, and has received numerous awards for his coverage of state government and politics. Read more>>

Visual Arts Gallery to present “Reverent/Irreverent”

“Reverent/Irreverent,” works by Brian DeLevie, will be on display at the Visual Arts Gallery at UIS from October 6 through 27. The gallery will host an evening with the artist on Thursday, October 6, beginning with an artist’s talk at 5:30 p.m. followed by a reception from 6 to 8 p.m. DeLevie is a digital artist, experimental filmmaker, and writer, as well as assistant professor of multimedia at the University of Colorado at Denver. Read more>>

Friday, September 16, 2005

Forum on “Politics, the Constitution, and Supreme Court Appointments”

Martin Redish, a professor at the Northwestern University School of Law, will deliver the keynote address at a public forum on “Politics, the Constitution, and Supreme Court Appointments” beginning at 7:30 p.m. Monday, September 19, in Brookens Auditorium at UIS. Read more>>

UIS alumni to host Come Back to Campus Open House

Alumni and friends of UIS are invited to a Come Back to Campus Open House to be held from 3 to 6 p.m. Friday, September 30. The event, which is free and open to the public, will feature a variety of 45-minute presentations and demonstrations beginning at 3, 4, and 5 p.m. Read more>>

Thursday, September 15, 2005

EDL program to offer courses to displaced students, law students, attorneys

During the second half of the 2005 fall semester (October 17 to December 10), the Educational Leadership Program at UIS will make space available in its graduate online courses in the legal aspects of education to students displaced by Hurricane Katrina. Displaced graduate students interested in public policy, law, advocacy, political science, and labor relations in educational settings are encouraged to apply. The courses may also be of interest to displaced students enrolled in law school or to attorneys who are required to take classes or seminars to satisfy continuing legal education credit required for licensure in their respective states. Read more>>

Wednesday, September 14, 2005

Governor signs bill proposed by UIS professor

Anthony Sisneros, associate professor of Public Administration at UIS, was instrumental in the effort to pass a new law designed to help state agencies increase hiring among the Hispanic community at supervisory, technical, professional, and managerial levels, as well as to fill more positions with people who can speak Spanish fluently. The bill was signed into law by Governor Blagojevich on August 15. Read more>>

Tuesday, September 13, 2005

More students attending UIS this fall

UIS has experienced an increase in enrollment this fall fueled by a larger number of students taking coursework online as well as growth in the Capital Scholars Honors Program.

Marya Leatherwood, director of Enrollment Management, reported that there are a total of 4,517 students attending UIS this fall, a 2.8 percent increase over last fall. Read more>>

WUIS to broadcast hurricane relief concert

Public radio 91.9 FM WUIS/89.3 WIPA, in conjunction with National Public Radio and station WGBO/Newark, will broadcast “Higher Ground,” a relief concert for Hurricane Katrina victims, live from Lincoln Center in New York City, Saturday, September 17, starting at 7 p.m. CDT.

Led by New Orleans native Wynton Marsalis and emceed by actor Laurence Fishburn, the concert features a stellar guest list. Read more>>

UIS to present discussion of goddess beliefs and cultures

Scholar Caron Cadle will present a slide show and discussion of “Goddess: A New (Old) Vision” at 7 p.m. Wednesday, September 21, in PAC conference room H at UIS. A life-long scholar of goddess religions and goddess-centered cultures, Cadle has traveled widely to various goddess sites around the world and is a sought-after speaker on the topic. Read more>>

Constitution Day Forum at UIS to focus on Supreme Court

“Politics, the Constitution, and Supreme Court Appointments” is the topic of a forum to be held at UIS on Monday, September 19, from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium. The event is presented by the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership in observance of U.S. Constitution Day.

The keynote speaker, Martin H. Redish, Professor of Law, Northwestern University School of Law, will discuss the role of the Supreme Court in American constitutional democracy. Read more>>

Monday, September 12, 2005

UIS places record number of Graduate Public Service interns

Graduate students enrolled in UIS' Graduate Public Service Internship program have found placements with participating state agencies in record numbers for the third year in a row. According to Kim Hayden, director of UIS’ Office of Graduate Intern Programs, this year's group is the largest cohort to begin the fall term in the 30-year history of the program. Read more>>

Brookens Library to host broadcasts for Constitution Day

Brookens Library at UIS will sponsor the broadcast of three special programs on Friday, September 16, in observance of Constitution Day. The programs are “Beyond the Patriot Act,” “Our Constitution: A Conversation with Supreme Court Justices Sandra Day O’Connor and Stephen Breyer,” and “Free Speech in the Digital Age.” Read more>>

Friday, September 09, 2005

Approval of new curriculum makes UIS full four-year university

UIS became a full four-year university Thursday for the first time in its 35-year history. The milestone was reached when the U of I Board of Trustees approved a new general education curriculum that will allow UIS to enroll a larger number of freshmen in a full baccalaureate experience in fall 2006.

“We are now a four-year university in the truest sense of the word,” said UIS Chancellor Richard Ringeisen.

U of I President Joe White called the Board’s approval “a watershed moment for UIS." Read more>>

Thursday, September 08, 2005

Statewide political magazine celebrates 30 years


Former Gov. Jim Edgar will moderate a panel discussion on the state’s future at a special luncheon honoring Illinois Issues magazine’s 30th Anniversary. The celebration will be held Friday, September 30, at the Union League Club of Chicago, 65 West Jackson. The luncheon will provide an opportunity to explore, from a fresh perspective, some of the policy challenges Illinois could face in the coming decades. Read more>>

Wednesday, September 07, 2005

UIS to present Einstein centennial lecture

"Einstein’s Insights: How They Shaped Our Modern View of the Universe” will be the subject of a lecture by Charles Schweighauser, professor emeritus of Astronomy/Physics, English, and Environmental Studies at UIS, to be presented at 7:30 p.m. Friday, September 16, in conference room F, located on the lower level of the Public Affairs Center.

Schweighauser will deliver this non-technical lecture in observance of the 100th anniversary of Einstein’s Theory of Relativity. Read more>>

UIS to host foreign and independent film series

The Division of Student Affairs at UIS is sponsoring a Foreign and Independent Film Series on Friday nights this fall, beginning September 9. All films are shown at 7 p.m. in Brookens Auditorium. Admission is free and the public is welcome to attend. See the line-up of films>>

Book signing set for UIS faculty member’s new poetry collection

A book signing and reception for Marcellus Leonard, associate professor of English at UIS and author of Shake the Thunder Down, will be held from 5 to 8 p.m. Thursday, September 22, in MacDonald Lounge, located on the lower level of Brookens Library on campus. The collection of poetry gathers together both well-known and never-before-published selections from his work. Read more>>

Tuesday, September 06, 2005

National initiative to keep students learning conceived at UIS

A major national initiative funded by the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to provide free online college courses for students displaced by Hurricane Katrina was conceived by an administrator at UIS.

Ray Schroeder, director of the Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning at UIS, along with Burks Oakley, director of U of I Online, originated the initiative toward which the Sloan Foundation will contribute more than $1 million. The initiative, which is expected to accommodate about 10,000 student enrollments, consists of offering displaced students a first ever, free special eight-week accelerated semester to keep them learning, beginning on October 10. Read more>>

Friday, September 02, 2005

UIS announces plans to enroll students affected by hurricane

UIS announced today that it is prepared to immediately welcome students who were enrolled and planning to attend fall classes at colleges and universities now closed in areas ravaged by Hurricane Katrina.

Marya Leatherwood, UIS Director of Enrollment Management, said students affected by the hurricane who wish to continue their education uninterrupted should contact the UIS Office of Admissions as soon as possible to make arrangements. Read more>>

Tuesday, August 30, 2005

Reception honors UIS faculty achievements

UIS held its annual reception to recognize faculty achievements on August 29. The ceremony honored faculty members who have received tenure and/or promotion, been awarded sabbaticals, or granted emeritus status. Three major awards -- the Pearson Faculty Award, the Spencer Faculty Service Award, and the Faculty Excellence Award -- were also presented. Read more>>

Auditions set for UIS Theater’s season opener

Auditions for Sophocles’ Oedipus the King, the first production in the 2005-2006 season of the Theatre Program at UIS, are scheduled for Sunday and Monday, September 18 and 19, from 7 to 10 p.m. in the PAC Studio Theatre. Anyone with an interest in theater is invited to participate, both on stage and behind the scenes. Read more>>

PAR graduates win national awards

Eight graduates and the director of the Public Affairs Reporting program at UIS won honors in the 2004-2005 Excellence in State Government Coverage awards program sponsored by Capitolbeat, the national Association of Capitol Reporters and Editors. The awards honor the best Statehouse reporting by print, TV, radio, wire, and online journalists in the country. PAR grads won a total of 13 awards, including five first places. Read more>>

Monday, August 29, 2005

Taste of UIS opens with fiddle and folk music

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will present “Incorporating Fiddle and Folk Music into the 21st Century Classroom: Why It Matters!” the first program in this fall’s Taste of UIS series, from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, September 14, at Maldaner’s Upstairs, 222 South Sixth St., Springfield.

Featured speaker will be Sharon Graf, assistant professor of Ethnomusicology and winner of the 2004 Illinois State Old-Time Fiddle Championship. Read more>>

Friday, August 26, 2005

WUIS to air Labor Day tributes to Bob Dylan

Public Radio WUIS will celebrate Labor Day with two special programs in tribute to pop music icon Bob Dylan. “The Emergence of Bob Dylan,” broadcast from 7 to 9 p.m., maps out the confluence of Dylan’s rise with the times. “Written in My Soul from Me to You,” broadcast from 9 to 11 p.m., is an all-star concert tribute to his seminal work, Blood on the Tracks. Read more>>

Thursday, August 25, 2005

Illinois Issues magazine honored by national association

Illinois Issues magazine, a publication of UIS, has received a number of awards for magazine journalism from capitolbeat, the Association of Capitol Reporters and Editors. Three first-place awards and one second-place award – all recognizing excellence in state government reporting – were presented at the organization’s annual conference, held recently in Seattle. Read more>>

New faculty join UIS

Thirty-nine new faculty members have joined UIS for the 2005 fall semester. Sixteen will teach in programs within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; five will teach in the College of Public Affairs and Administration; nine in the College of Business and Management; five in the College of Education and Human Services; and four are members of the library faculty.

For more information, including a link to photographs>>

Wednesday, August 24, 2005

UIS student named Outstanding Volunteer

UIS student James Farris was recently recognized as an Outstanding Volunteer for 2005 by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources.

Farris, a major in UIS’ Sociology/Anthropology program, received the award in recognition of his volunteer work in the Anthropology section of the Illinois State Museum. Read more>>

Monday, August 22, 2005

UIS Visual Arts Gallery to present “Routeless”

The Visual Arts Gallery at UIS will open its 2005 fall season with “Routeless: New Work by Leslie Stalter,” which will be on display September 1 through 29. The gallery will host an evening with the artist on Thursday, September 8, from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Read more>>

Wednesday, August 17, 2005

UIS faculty member publishes poetry collection

Shake the Thunder Down, a collection of poetry by Marcellus Leonard, associate professor of English at UIS, has been released by Daybreak Press, the poetry imprint of Pitch-Black, LLC.

This collection spans Leonard’s 30 years as a poet, performer, and scholar and gathers together both well-known and never-before-published selections from his work. Read more>>

Tuesday, August 16, 2005

UIS fall Convocation

UIS will hold its annual Convocation. Following remarks by Chancellor Ringeisen, 42 new faculty members will be introduced.

3 p.m., Wednesday, August 17, PAC Studio Theatre

Read more>>

Taste of UIS lunchtime lectures return

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will sponsor A Taste of UIS: Distinguished Faculty/Alumni Lunchtime Lectures -- three presentations featuring distinguished UIS faculty and alumni -- at Maldaner’s Upstairs in Springfield.

The program on September 14 will feature Sharon Graf, assistant professor of Ethnomusicology, speaking on “Incorporating Fiddle and Folk Music into the 21st Century Classroom: Why It Matters!”

On October 19, Tim Townsend, alumnus and a historian at the Lincoln Home historic site, will present “Here I Have Lived: The History of the Lincoln Home and Neighborhood.”

And on November 17, U of I President B. Joseph White will speak on “Integrity in Leadership.”

Read more>>

Community invited to join UIS musical groups

Members of the community who are interested in sharing their musical talents are invited to join one or more of the five campus ensembles currently gearing up for the fall semester at UIS. Auditions are not required to join any of the groups outlined below, and most can be taken for academic credit, if desired. The groups are the UIS Chorus, Band, World Percussion Ensemble, Chamber Ensemble, and Native American Flute Circle. Read more>>

Monday, August 08, 2005

UIS to offer “Spanish for Cultural Literacy”

UIS will offer “Spanish for Cultural Literacy,” an online personal and professional development course, in two eight-sessions during the 2005 fall semester. Participants can enroll as either for-credit or non-credit students.

Holly McCracken, director of CLAS Online Programs, explained, “This course will be an excellent opportunity for individuals who are preparing for business travel, planning vacations or study abroad, or who work with Spanish-speaking colleagues." Read more>>

UIS announces spring 05 Deans' List

Nearly 470 UIS students were named to the Deans' List for the 2005 spring semester.

Get a printable list of names>>

Thursday, August 04, 2005

UIS to co-host workshop on distance counseling

"The Distance Credentialed Counselor,” a two-day professional development workshop, will be co-hosted by UIS October 20 and 21 on campus.

Distance counseling adapts traditional techniques for delivery through technology-assisted methods such as telecounseling, secure e-mail, chat, videoconferencing, or computerized software programs. Fifteen continuing education hours are awarded for successful completion of this training.

Register by August 21 to receive a discount. Read more>>

Wednesday, July 27, 2005

UIS to offer new graduate certificate in legal aspects of education

The Educational Leadership Program at UIS will offer a Graduate Certificate in Legal Aspects of Education beginning with the 2005 fall semester. The program comprises 18 hours of graduate coursework and will be offered only online.

Dr. Scott Day, EDL chair, and Dr. Margaret Noe, EDL faculty and program director, explained that the new certificate program is designed to provide opportunities for educational leaders to increase their knowledge of legal issues that may affect them professionally and also to enable them to meet statutorily mandated requirements for professional development and certification. Read more>>

Tuesday, July 26, 2005

Pre-White House Conference on Aging summit cancelled

“The Booming Dynamics of Aging: From Awareness to Action,” a Pre-White House Conference on Aging summit scheduled for Friday, July 29, at UIS, has been cancelled. Those who had registered may be interested in an upcoming conference that the UIS Gerontology concentration will cosponsor with Memorial Medical Center in September. Read more>>

Thursday, July 21, 2005

UIS to host College Summit for high school juniors

UIS will host College Summit -- a program for bright high school juniors who might be unlikely to go to college unless given early, personal exposure to a college campus and the college application experience -- for four days beginning Friday, July 22. The summit includes a walk through financial assistance application procedures and discussions on how to prepare for college while still in high school. Read more>>

Wednesday, July 20, 2005

UIS publication to be included in prestigious academic index

State Politics and Policy Quarterly, a publication of UIS, has been tapped for inclusion in Thomson/ISI’s Social Science Citation Index, one of the most prestigious academic journal indexing services in the world.

Christopher Mooney, professor of political studies at UIS and with the IGPA, is the SPPQ founding editor. He explained: “The SCCI is one of the primary research tools used by scholars around the world. Inclusion is the gold standard of excellence for academic journals in the social sciences.” Read more>>

UIS to be site of Pre-White House Conference on Aging summit

UIS will be the site of “The Booming Dynamics of Aging: From Awareness to Action,” a Pre-White House Conference on Aging summit to be held from 9:15 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, July 29, in the Public Affairs Center on the UIS campus.

Speakers will be Carolyn Peck, assistant professor of Human Services-Gerontology at UIS, and Julie Hubbard, executive director of the Area Agency on Aging for Lincolnland. Following discussion among participants, an afternoon roundtable session will formulate recommendations to be forwarded to delegates at the 2005 White House Conference on Aging, which will be held in Washington in December. Read more>>

WUIS News Director Rich Bradley receives prestigious Lee award

Rich Bradley, veteran news director of WUIS-WIPA Public Radio, has received the prestigious 2005 Leo C. Lee Award, presented by Public Radio News Directors, Inc. The award honors those who “demonstrate a lasting commitment to public radio journalism and who exemplify the ideal, spirit, and passion of the profession.” Previous recipients include such notable NPR figures as Carl Kasell (1996), Ira Glass (1999), and Linda Wertheimer (2004). Read more>>

Thursday, July 14, 2005

Book by UIS professor receives high praise

A new book by UIS faculty member Barbara Burkhardt has received excellent reviews in several major newspapers and other publications, including the Chicago Tribune, which called the book “brilliant.” William Maxwell: A Literary Life is the first major critical study of the renowned Illinois writer’s life and work.

The book has also been praised by USA Today, Booklist, and Publishers Weekly. It will be reviewed in the New York Times on July 17. Read more>>

Wednesday, July 13, 2005

Bill Wheelhouse named WUIS general manager

Bill Wheelhouse, long-time statehouse bureau chief for WUIS 91.9 – WIPA 89.3 Public Radio, has been named general manager of the station effective August 16, pending approval of the U of I Board of Trustees.

Wheelhouse has been WUIS statehouse bureau chief since 1995, leading award-winning state capitol coverage for the 12-station Illinois Public Radio network. He succeeds Brad Swanson, who retired in December 2004 after 28 years of service to WUIS, and station News Director Rich Bradley, who has been serving as interim general manager since Swanson’s retirement. Read more>>

UIS receives $1 million gift for new rec and fitness center

UIS Chancellor Richard Ringeisen announced today a gift of $1 million from the Hoogland Family Foundation of Charles and Kathleen Hoogland for the campus' soon-to-be constructed recreation and fitness center.

“We are very grateful for the support of the Hoogland family, whose generosity will allow us to build an even better recreation and fitness center for our students,” said Ringeisen.

The gift will bring the total cost of the center to $14.1 million, a figure that is expected to be approved by the U of I Board of Trustees at its regular meeting July 14 in Chicago.

During a news conference today, Charles Hoogland said he and his family want to support UIS in its efforts to build the campus and develop student life. “This university is a great asset to this community, and the success and well-being of its students is a key factor in its ability to continue moving forward,” Hoogland said.

Read more>>

Design for new recreation and fitness center unveiled


The design for a new recreation and fitness center at UIS was unveiled today at a campus news conference, pending U of I Board of Trustees approval expected to take place during the board’s regular meeting July 14 in Chicago.

The 57,513 net-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility will be located just west of Kiwanis Stadium on the south edge of campus.

“The center will advance our efforts to enhance campus life and provide a range of activities for students and staff, younger and older, whether they live on campus or commute to campus,” said UIS Chancellor Richard Ringeisen. Read more>>

Tuesday, July 12, 2005

UIS hosts celebration of Peruvian Independence Day

UIS will host a celebration of Peruvian Independence Day from 6 p.m. to midnight Saturday, July 23, at Cinco DeMayo, 3751 S. Sixth St. Rd., in Springfield. The evening will feature authentic Peruvian food, entertainment, and dancing. Read more>>

Monday, July 11, 2005

Major gift for rec center to be announced

A major gift for the new recreation and fitness center at UIS will be announced and the design for the center will be unveiled.

10 a.m. Wednesday, July 13, UIS Gymnasium, located in the Student Life Building.

Read more>>

UIS Cox Children’s Center receives IBM grant

Cox Children’s Center at UIS has received an IBM On Demand Community Grant that has provided the center with approximately $3,500 worth of new computer equipment, including a Young Explorer work station for the preschool classroom – complete with desk, computer, monitor, printer, keyboard, and software.

Center Director Stacey Hembrough noted, “As a nationally accredited facility, Cox Center feels that it is essential to give children access to elements that promote quality and that prepare them for life.” Read more>>

Tuesday, July 05, 2005

WUIS to host Bluegrass Birthday Bash

Public Radio WUIS will host a Bluegrass and Barbecue Birthday Bash beginning at 4 p.m. Sunday, July 10, in Parking Lot B on the UIS campus. The public is invited to the event, which is part of the station’s year-long 30th anniversary celebration.

The afternoon will include children’s musical activities, tours of the WUIS studios, barbeque from Turasky’s Catering, and performances by Bluegrass Breakdown host Mark Mathewson and The Lovell Sisters Band. Read more>>

Thursday, June 30, 2005

UIS receives grant to upgrade campus lighting

UIS has received a grant of more than $190,000 from the Illinois Clean Energy Community Foundation to replace existing interior lighting in several campus buildings.

Joe Eck, assistant director for planning, physical planning and operations, said that over the past two years UIS has applied for and received approval for two grants from the Clean Energy Foundation. “The second award will upgrade lighting fixtures in the Public Affairs Center, Health and Sciences Building, and buildings on the east side of campus,” said Eck.

Eck added that receiving these grants reflects the campus’ overall energy efficiency. Read more>>

Wednesday, June 29, 2005

New partnership will enable UIS to assist entrepreneurs

An entreNET partnership between UIS and The Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce has been established to streamline the delivery of services to entrepreneurs. The network is the newest and most comprehensive coalition that has been established for the purpose of growing new businesses in the Central Illinois region.

The Chamber is the lead partner with UIS in the administration of UIS’ new Center for Entrepreneurship, housed in the university’s College of Business and Management. Richard Judd, director of the Center, called the entreNet partnership an exciting concept. “Nothing like this has been done before in our region. This should be the background of the drive to enhance business start-ups and expansion of existing small business firms in the Central Illinois region,” he said. Read more>>

Monday, June 27, 2005

Taylor named interim director of Sangamon Auditorium at UIS

David Taylor has been named Interim Director of Sangamon Auditorium at UIS, effective June 30. Taylor previously had served as the facility’s associate director. He will replace Susan Linn, who will be assuming a position in development at Moraine Valley Community College in Palos Hills, near Chicago. Read more>>

Monday, June 13, 2005

UIS seminar examines women’s roles in the Civil War

UIS will present “With Hearts on Fire - Women in the Civil War: North and South” from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Friday, June 17, in Brookens Auditorium. The third event in the annual Society, Slavery, and the Civil War series, the program will examine women’s roles – including spy, soldier, nurse, and more – on both sides of the conflict.

Each participant will receive copies of program materials, including a book written specially for the seminar. Read more>>

Thursday, June 09, 2005

UIS offers public lecture series on Jury Perspectives

UIS is offering a series of free public lectures examining the American jury system in conjunction with the course American Juries: Theories, Themes, and Processes. Speakers include a mix of judges, prosecutors, public and private defense attorneys, and private investigators. The course is being taught by Michael Searcy, assistant professor of Communication.

Said Searcy, "Serving on a jury is one of the greatest duties Americans have. This course is an attempt to educate people about their obligations as citizens and to help them recognize that reality is not the same as a television show.”

See a list of speakers, dates, and times>>

Thursday, June 02, 2005

Four UIS students receive Brundage scholarships

Four UIS students -- Melanie Cain, Esteban Czwan Altobelli, Samantha Drews, and Brian McMillen -- were among 22 recipients of Avery Brundage Scholarships, made to U of I students who excel in both academics and athletics. Each student will receive a $2,000 award for the '05-'06 academic year. Read more>>

UIS lists 2005 graduates

More than 1,100 students received degrees at UIS' 34th commencement on May 7, 2005. See a printable list.>>

Monday, May 23, 2005

UIS Child Care Center to add infant care

Cox Children’s Center at UIS is adding infant care to its available services. The campus’ new infant center, which will provide care to infants beginning at 6 weeks of age, is expected to be fully operational by August 22, in time for the start of the fall semester. Read more>>

Monday, May 16, 2005

Three management students receive awards

Melinda Ballard, Nancy Elwell, and Tori Weishaupt -- all majoring in Management at UIS -- have received department awards for excellence. Read more >>

UIS graduate student receives FMC Fellowship Award

Darin Bohlmann, a graduate student in the MBA program, has received a Graduate Fellowship from Chicago-based FMC Technologies, Inc. Bohlmann, a first-year student in the MBA program offered by UIS in Peoria, will receive $9,000 for the 2005-2006 academic year.

FMC graduate fellowships are made to outstanding students in business administration, engineering, or related fields in recognition of noteworthy achievements. Read more>>

Wednesday, May 11, 2005

WUIS special programming will focus on "Think Global"

WUIS Public Radio 91.9 FM, in conjunction with the 2005 Public Radio Collaboration, will air a week of special programs May 16 through 22 that explore global interactions. This week of national dialogue will focus on the theme “Think Global.”

Rich Bradley, WUIS interim general manager, explained that the goal is to make the concept of globalization real and relevant, to start a “national conversation” about how almost everything we do is part of a complex web of interactions. Read more >>

Monday, May 09, 2005

Students receive achievement & recognition awards

Achievement and recognition awards were presented to 85 students during UIS commencement ceremonies on May 7. Click here to see a list of awards and the students who received them >>

Friday, May 06, 2005

UIS' 34th Commencement Ceremony

UIS will hold commencement ceremonies at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7

Prairie Capital Convention Center, 9th and Adams streets, downtown Springfield

Read more>>

Tuesday, May 03, 2005

Sen. Emil Jones to speak at UIS Law Day event

Illinois Senate President, the Honorable Emil Jones will lead the discussion on “Legislative Prospects for Educational Funding,” a special event in honor of Law Day at UIS.

8 to 9:30 a.m., Thursday, May 5, PAC Restaurant

Read more>>

Thursday, April 28, 2005

UIS Online Computer Science program ranks among "best buys" nationally

The Online Computer Science program at UIS was rated fourth in a recent national survey of “Top 20 Best Buys” conducted by GetEducated.com, the only consumer-oriented, online degree clearinghouse in the country. The biennial survey looks at tuition costs at accredited, distance-learning computer science and information systems degree programs nationwide.

The survey, the only one of its kind, identified several trends in online degree pricing that directly impact consumers as they go online to earn degrees. Read more>>

Wednesday, April 27, 2005

Sen. Emil Jones will speak at Law Day event

Illinois Senate President, the Honorable Emil Jones will lead the discussion on “Legislative Prospects for Educational Funding,” a special event in honor of Law Day, from 8 to 9:30 a.m., Thursday May 5, in the PAC restaurant.

Senator Jones will provide an update on his proposals for funding elementary and secondary education as well as the current status of funding for higher education. Read more>>

UIS' commencement ceremony will be May 7

UIS' 34th commencement ceremonies will be held at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Prairie Capital Convention Center, 9th and Adams streets in downtown Springfield. Of the 1,132 students eligible to graduate, 695 will participate in the ceremony. Read more>>

Lynn & Student Activism awards presented at UIS

Two annual awards recognizing contributions to a positive campus environment for women have been presented at UIS. Normajean Niebur is the recipient of the Eighth Annual Naomi B. Lynn Award for Outstanding Contributions to Women at UIS. Candi Clouse received the First Annual Student Award in Recognition for Positive Contributions in Gendered Issues to the UIS Campus Community through Activism. Both awards were presented at a ceremony held April 20. Read more>>

Tuesday, April 26, 2005

Phillip Zeni will deliver commencement address

International businessman Phillip T. Zeni, Sr. will deliver the address at the UIS commencement ceremony, at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 7, at the Prairie Capital Convention Center in downtown Springfield.

Zeni, a UIS graduate and 2003 recipient of the U of I Alumni Achievement Award, is the CEO and executive vice president of Orban/CRL -- a publicly owned manufacturer of sophisticated audio processing equipment for the broadcasting and Internet streaming industries. Read more>>

Monday, April 25, 2005

Congressman John Shimkus to lead presentation at UIS

U.S. Representative John Shimkus will lead a presentation on bullying and harassment prevention legislation currently under consideration in Congress. A roundtable discussion and a question-and-answer session will follow the Congressman’s address.

1:30 to 3 p.m., Monday, April 25, Brookens Auditorium

Read more>>

Tuesday, April 19, 2005

UIS team wins ASCLS Student Bowl

A team of students from UIS' Clinical Laboratory Science program took first place honors in Student Bowl competition at the American Society for Clinical Laboratory Science annual conference held recently in Springfield. The competition included students from clinical laboratory science programs around the state. Read more>>

Monday, April 18, 2005

Essay by UIS adjunct professor included in new book

“The Map-Crease Blues,” an essay by David Logan, UIS adjunct professor of English, appears 100 Ways to Beat the Blues: Tanya Tucker and Friends, a new book of reflections by 100 people from all walks of life who have their share of the blues, as well as ways to get out of them.

Logan is one of 30 “regular folks” whose essays appear alongside pieces by celebrities, scholars, and writers. The title of his piece refers to the fact that his hometown, Jacksonville, is “so centrally located in Illinois that the atlas folds right over on top of us.” Read more>>

UIS to host forum on responsible fatherhood

The Illinois Council on Responsible Fatherhood, in conjunction with the UIS Social Work program, will host a public forum from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday, April 30, in PAC conference room H.

One of the first government programs of its kind, the Council is designed as an attempt to address the ill effects on society that can occur when fathers are largely absent from their children’s lives. It was established as a statewide commission by the Illinois legislature in 2003. Read more>>

Friday, April 15, 2005

Visual Arts student holds one-man show

“Push to Open,” a one-man, one-night show featuring paintings by UIS Visual Arts student Joseph Miller, will be on display at the Quality Inn and Suites/State House Inn, 101 East Adams in downtown Springfield, on Wednesday, April 27. A reception will be held from 6 to 9 p.m. Miller’s paintings examine the presentation and observation of human form found in the media. Read more>>

Visual Arts students hold concurrent exhibits

“Greater Than Oblivion” and “Coalesce,” mixed media exhibitions by 12 graduating seniors in the Visual Arts program at UIS, will open Thursday, April 28, at two campus locations. “Greater Than Oblivion” will be on display in the Visual Arts Gallery and run through May 12. “Coalesce” will be on display in the Lincoln Residence Hall Great Room through May 4. Opening receptions will be held at both locations from 5:30 to 8 p.m. on April 28. Read more>>

AST program receives work study grant

The Applied Study program at UIS recently received a $93,000 Illinois Cooperative Work Study Grant from the Illinois Board of Higher Education. This is the fifth largest award among 55 ICWS grants to Illinois colleges and universities for the 2005-2006 fiscal year.

This grant, combined with matching employer contributions, will make approximately $167,000 available for paid internships for AST students at UIS. Read more>>

Thursday, April 14, 2005

Tavia Ervin receives UIS' 2nd annual CAPE Award

Tavia Ervin, assistant to the director of the Capital Scholars program, is the recipient of the second annual Chancellor’s Academic Professional Excellence Award at UIS.

Presenting the award, Chancellor Ringeisen noted that APs are a “pillar” at UIS, serving in many vital roles. Of Ervin, he said, “She is one of the reasons for the success of the Capital Scholars program since it began four years ago."

The CAPE Award recognizes U of I academic professionals for their efforts in three general categories: work projects, professional development and affiliations, and contributions to their units. Eleven other APs were nominated at UIS. Read more>>

UIS music groups present Spring Showcase Concert

UIS music groups will present their annual Spring Showcase Concert beginning at 8 p.m. Friday, April 29, in the Studio Theatre.

Highlights will include the chorus performing songs from Japan and southern India, including a devotional song in Hindi; the chamber ensemble performing a ragtime selection and a Bartok suite based on peasant dances; and the band performing classical and jazz pieces. Read more>>

UIS to present Poets! Poets! Poets!

Poets! Poets! Poets!, part of the Speakers Series at UIS, will feature St. Louis area poets Aaron Belz and Brian Jackson from 7 to 11 p.m., Friday, April 22, in the Student Center. The evening will also feature an open mic session.

Belz’s poems have appeared in a number of publications and he is the featured Verse Press Younger American Poet.

Jackson is currently a Ph.D. candidate studying modern and contemporary poetry at St. Louis University. In 2001 he was named Friends of Lincoln Library Writer of the Year. Read more>>

Wednesday, April 13, 2005

UIS Innocence Project announces initiative to establish Innocence Commission

The Downstate Illinois Innocence Project at UIS announced an initiative to establish a state Innocence Commission during a news conference held Wednesday, April 13, at the Statehouse. The conference followed a presentation to the Illinois Senate by Dr. Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, the former middleweight boxer who spent more than 20 years in prison before being exonerated for crimes he did not commit.

Larry Golden, UIS professor emeritus of Political Studies and Legal Studies and co-director of the Innocence Project, said that the announcement marked the “beginning of an initiative to explore the need and viability of an Innocence Commission for the state of Illinois." Read more>>

Tuesday, April 12, 2005

Rubin "Hurricane" Carter to speak for the creation of a state Innocence Commission

On Wednesday, April 13, Rubin “Hurricane” Carter will address the Illinois Senate, after which UIS' Downstate Illinois Innocence Project will hold a news conference with Dr. Carter and Keith Harris, who spent 22 years in prison for a crime he did not commit, to announce an initiative to establish an Innocence Commission in Illinois. Carter will address the Senate shortly after 11 a.m. The news conference is at 12:15 p.m. in the Statehouse Press Room.

Establishing an Innocence Commission is an effort to address the problem of individuals who are wrongly convicted and spend years in prison before they are exonerated. Read more>>

Monday, April 11, 2005

Presentation looks at moral values in American politics

James A. Morone, professor of political science at Brown University, will speak on moral values in American politics at 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 11, in the Studio Theatre. Dr. Morone is the author of Hellfire Nation: The Politics of Sin in American History. His appearance is part of UIS’ Public Policy Summit, which this year is examining “Politics and Religion: Global and American Perspectives.” Read more>>

UIS to host 5th Science Research Symposium

The Fifth Annual UIS Science Research Symposium, to be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, April 22, will feature a keynote address by Dr. Millicent Firestone from the Argonne National Laboratory. Firestone's address will cap a day of presentations on applied or theoretical research by students and faculty in science programs at UIS and other colleges. A Junior Scientist category will also showcase the work of area high school students. Read more>>

Friday, April 08, 2005

Rep. Shimkus will lead discussion of pending legislation at UIS

U.S. Representative John Shimkus will lead a presentation on bullying and harassment prevention legislation currently under consideration in Congress from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Monday, April 25, in Brookens Auditorium. A roundtable discussion on bullying and harassment, as well as a question-and-answer session including Congressman Shimkus will follow the presentation. Read more>>

Thursday, April 07, 2005

UIS to host Raise Your Voice - Lobby Day

UIS will host “Raise Your Voice – Lobby Day,” a two-day conference of students from colleges and universities all over the state, on Sunday and Monday, April 10 and 11, at the UIS campus and the Statehouse. Students will attend forums on civic engagement and lobby their representatives. The event will culminate with a rally at the State Capitol Rotunda. See a schedule of events>>

UIS events celebrate Earth Day

UIS will host two events in observance of Earth Day 2005. On Wednesday, April 20, Dr. Michele Morrone from Ohio University will deliver the keynote address, “Is Science Anti-Environmental?” at 7 p.m. in PAC conference room F.

On Thursday, April 21, guided tours of the campus nature trail and restored prairie area will be available, weather permitting. Tour groups will leave at 1 p.m. from outside Brookens Library.

Both events are sponsored by the Department of Environmental Studies and Students Allied for a Greener Earth. Read more>>

Pre-Law Center hosts forum with state Supreme Court justice

Illinois Supreme Court Justice Thomas Kilbride will be the featured speaker at a John Peter Altgeld Forum, presented by UIS' Pre-Law Center from noon to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 20, in the Studio Theatre. The forum is presented free; however, advance registration is required.

Justice Kilbride practiced law for 20 years in Rock Island and is a charter member of the Illinois Pro Bono Center. He was elected to the Supreme Court of Illinois for the Third District in 2000. Read more>>

Wednesday, April 06, 2005

"Tech Day" at UIS

“Tech Day: Fast Forward - the Future of Technology and Learning at UIS” Friday, April 8, begins at 9:30 a.m. with a keynote address by Dr. Jacqueline Moloney from the University of Massachusetts-Lowell. From 10:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. concurrent presentations and poster sessions by UIS faculty, staff, and students will focus on such topics as smart classrooms, computer security, and tutoring online students.

All events will be held on the second floor of University Hall. Read more>>

Tuesday, April 05, 2005

2005 Verbal Arts Festival

UIS' Annual Verbal Arts Festival will be April 6 through 9. Events include a presentation by Jackie Jackson, an open mic night, a reader's theater, and the unveiling of the 2005 Alchemist Review. See a complete schedule>>

UIS to present lecture by nationally known sculptor

Sculptor Michael Dunbar will present a special Artist’s Lecture at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7, in PAC conference room C/D. The lecture is in conjunction with “Machinist Studies,” an exhibit of Dunbar’s work on display through April 21 at the Visual Arts Gallery. Read more>>

Tech Day: the future of technology & learning

“Tech Day: The Future of Technology and Learning at UIS” will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, April 8, in University Hall. The half-day symposium will begin with a keynote address by Dr. Jacqueline Moloney from the University of Massachusetts-Lowell. More than 25 presentations and poster sessions by UIS faculty and staff will focus on ways that the campus is using technology for teaching and scholarship. Read more>>

Taste of UIS will examine life of William Maxwell

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will present “William Maxwell: A Literary Life,” the third program in this spring’s Taste of UIS Lunchtime Lecture Series, from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesday, April 26, at Maldaner’s Upstairs in downtown Springfield. The featured speaker will be Barbara Burkhardt, assistant professor of English. Read more>>

Monday, April 04, 2005

UIS celebrates Disability Awareness Week

UIS is observing Disability Awareness Week, April 4 through 8, with a variety of events, ranging from an award-winning movie to a wheelchair basketball game. See the complete schedule>>

Friday, April 01, 2005

Presentation will examine moral values in American politics

James A. Morone, professor of political science at Brown University, will speak on “Hellfire Nation: Moral Values in American Politics” at 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 11, in the Studio Theatre. The presentation is part of UIS’ Public Policy Summit, which this year examines “Politics and Religion: Global and American Perspectives.”

Morone’s presentation will explain how fears of sin and dreams of virtue influence every political issue, from the war on terror to the war on drugs and from health care to foreign policy. Read more>>

UIS and LLCC to observe National Volunteer Week

The Office of Student Volunteers and Service Learning at UIS and the Community Volunteer Center at LLCC will participate in National Volunteer Week, April 17 through 23, which this year focuses on the theme “Inspire by Example.” At UIS, a week of service dedicated to “giving back” to the campus community will focus on Cox Children’s Center. Read more>>

WUIS adds "Beale Street Caravan" to Friday night programs

“Beale Street Caravan,” a one-hour program featuring the world’s best blues artists recorded live in intimate performances, will join the Friday night lineup on WUIS (91.9 Springfield) and WIPA (89.3 Pittsfield) beginning April 8. The program will air Fridays at 8 p.m. Read more>>

Thursday, March 31, 2005

UIS Cares will focus on Washington Middle School

UIS' Office of Student Volunteers and Service Learning will sponsor the third annual “UIS Cares” event on Saturday, April 16. This year, UIS will again partner with Washington Middle School, 2300 E. Jackson, to work on landscaping projects on the school grounds. Volunteers are still needed. Read more>>

UIS graduate wins distinguished thesis award

Tracy DiMezzo, who graduated from UIS last May with a master of science degree in Biology, has received a 2005 MAGS Distinguished Master’s Thesis Award from the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools. Her thesis, titled “Uptake Analysis of Fluorescently-Labeled Hydrophobic Organic Phosphate Substrates by Aquatic Hydrophobic Bacteria,” had previously been chosen Outstanding Master’s Thesis for the 2003-04 academic year at UIS. Read more>>

Wednesday, March 30, 2005

Founder of Center for Advanced Defense Studies to speak

Dr. Newton Howard, founder and chairman of The Center for Advanced Defense Studies, will discuss the organization’s mission and goals at 11 a.m. Friday, April 1, in UHB 2034. CADS is a non-profit, non-governmental educational institute located in Washington DC that provides programs and research to complement efforts by government and international organizations focused on conflict prevention and resolution. Read more>>

Tuesday, March 29, 2005

40 UIS students named to Who's Who

Forty UIS students have been named to the 2005 edition of Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges. See the list of names>>

UIS to host Raise Your Voice - Lobby Day

UIS will host “Raise Your Voice – Lobby Day,” on campus and at the Statehouse, on Sunday and Monday, April 10 and 11. The conference will culminate with a rally at the State Capitol Rotunda. Read more>>

UIS to host Verbal Arts Festival

UIS' 2005 Verbal Arts Festival, an annual celebration of the arts, is scheduled for April 6 through 9. The opening event is a presentation by Jackie Jackson, emerita professor of English. Read more>>

Monday, March 28, 2005

UIS to hold 7th Annual Health Fair

UIS will host its Seventh Annual Health Fair from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, in the PAC concourse and conference rooms. The fair is sponsored by Campus Health Services in conjunction with National Public Health Week, which this year focuses on the theme “Prevent, Protect, and Plan: Empowering Americans to live stronger, longer.” There will be about 25 booths, each with an interactive feature. Read more>>

Friday, March 25, 2005

Alumni Association to host etiquette dinner

Brush up on your table manners, learn the correct way to exchange business cards, and enjoy a four-course meal by attending “The ABCs of Forks, Knives, and Toasting” to be held from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, April 8, in the PAC restaurant. Presented by the U of I Alumni Association, the event will feature instruction in business and social etiquette. Read more>>

Tuesday, March 22, 2005

Public Policy Summit will examine politics & religion

“Politics and Religion: Global and American Perspectives” is the topic of the third annual Public Policy Summit, April 11 at UIS. Two sessions will be held, both open to the public. The luncheon session requires advance registration by April 4. The evening session is free.

Pippa Norris, from Harvard University, will give the keynote address, “A World Divided – Sacred and Secular Values,” at the luncheon session. The evening program will feature a presentation by James A. Morone, a professor at Brown University, titled “Hellfire Nation: Moral Values in American Politics.” Read more>>

Criminal justice honor society to induct 11

Induction ceremonies for 11 new members of the Epsilon Chi Chapter of Alpha Phi Sigma, the national criminal justice honor society, will be held at 6 p.m. Sunday, April 3, in the PAC restaurant at UIS. Alpha Phi Sigma is the only national honor society for criminal justice majors and recognizes the academic excellence of undergraduate and graduate students. Read more>>

"Hurricane" Carter to speak at UIS

Dr. Rubin “Hurricane” Carter, the former middleweight contender whose boxing career was ended by a conviction for three murders he did not commit, will speak on “The Fight for Justice” at 7:15 p.m. Wednesday, April 13, in the Studio Theatre. The program is presented by the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project at UIS.

Carter’s visit will be preceded by screenings of the film The Hurricane, starring Denzel Washington, at noon, 6 p.m., and 9:30 p.m. on Thursday, March 31, in Brookens Auditorium.

A reception with Carter will precede his public presentation on April 13. Tickets are $50 per person and advance registration is required. Read more>>

Child care center to join Week of the Young Child observance

Cox Children’s Center at UIS will join organizations around the country to observe Week of the Young Child, April 4 through 8. The week honors America’s more than 35 million children aged birth through eight years, and the families, teachers, and other adults who help them make the most of opportunities the early years afford.

Events planned for Cox Center include Grandparents Day, Activity Day, Breakfast with Parents, and an Open House. Read more>>

Child care center receives grant

Cox Children’s Center at UIS has received a reimbursement grant of more than $10,000 from Quality Counts 2004-2005, a project sponsored by Community Child Care Connection and the Illinois Department of Human Services.

Stacey Hembrough, Cox Center director, explained, “My focus in applying for the grant was on improving the quality of care we offer school-age children and on enabling us to continue caring for children with special needs." Hembrough said that the center has requested a large amount of material, furniture, and equipment that will be purchased in time for its summer school-age camp. Read more>>

Monday, March 21, 2005

Book signing set for professor's new work

UIS faculty member Rosina Neginsky will sign copies of her new book, Zinaida Vengerova: In Search of Beauty. A Literary Ambassador between East and West, at 4:30 p.m. Thursday, March 31, in the lobby of the Studio Theatre. A reception will follow.

Though little-known today, Zinaida Vengerova (1867-1941) was in her lifetime an important Symbolist writer and literary critic. Neginsky describes her book as “a biography, but also a cultural history and literary criticism.” Read more>>

Friday, March 18, 2005

Presentation looks at the Peace Corps in Madagascar

Area residents who have ever wondered what the Peace Corps is all about are invited to attend “Peace Corps in Madagascar: Life on the Big Red Island,” beginning at 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, in PAC conference room F. The discussion will be led by three former Peace Corps volunteers who worked in Madagascar between 1998 and 2001. Read more>>

Tuesday, March 15, 2005

UIS to host 24th David Dodds Henry Lecture

Dr. Constantine W. Curris, president of the American Association of State Colleges and Universities, will present the 24th David Dodds Henry Lecture at 2 p.m. Wednesday, March 30, in Brookens Auditorium at UIS. Dr. Curris will speak on “Public Higher Education: Is the Public Lost?”

Curris is a strong advocate for public higher education and a proponent of strengthening institutions of higher education to meet public needs and expectations in the 21st century.

The Henry lectures honor the late David D. Henry, who served as U of I President from 1955 until 1971. Read more>>

Monday, March 14, 2005

Sheila Simon to discuss her parents' legacy

Sheila Simon will speak on “A Life in Illinois Politics and Law: A Daughter Carries Forward the Legacy of Jeanne and Paul Simon” at 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 28, in Brookens Auditorium. A question-and-answer session and a reception will follow the formal presentation, which will also include a discussion of current trends and future challenges concerning women in Illinois politics and law. Read more>>

Events mark Disability Awareness Week

UIS will host a number of activities in observance of Disability Awareness Week, April 4 through 8. Events range from demonstrations of the latest adaptive technology to a wheelchair basketball game, screening of a major motion picture, and a demonstration of adaptive martial arts. All events will be held on campus and are fully accessible to the mobility-impaired. Read more>>

Forum examines prosecution complex and the wrongfully convicted

A public forum on “The Prosecution Complex and the Wrongfully Convicted” will be held at 6:15 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, in University Hall, room 2008.

The forum will feature a panel discussion with Thomas Frisbie, a Chicago Sun-Times reporter and co-author of Victims of Justice, about the Jeanine Nicarico murder case; John Hanlon, an attorney for the Illinois Office of State Appellate Defender’s Capital Litigation Project; and Bill Clutter, a private investigator and director of investigations for the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project. Hanlon and Clutter have worked in the appeals process in many innocence cases, including the Nicarico case. Read more>>

Friday, March 11, 2005

An Evening with the Arts at UIS

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will host An Evening with the Arts -- featuring sculpture, theater, dance, and good food -- on Friday, April 1.

Events include an exhibit by Michael Dunbar in the Visual Arts Gallery, a candlelight buffet dinner in the PAC restaurant, and two theater options: UIS Theater Program’s production of Fifth of July or a performance by Trinity Irish Dance Company in Sangamon Auditorium. Read more>>

Expanding Your Horizons conference for girls

The Expanding Your Horizons conference will allow more than 300 sixth-, seventh-, and eighth-grade girls to explore potential careers via interactive workshops on topics ranging from webpage design to engineering, veterinary medicine, speech pathology, computer gaming, video production, archaeology, and forensic science.

The conference is scheduled for 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., Saturday, March 12, in the PAC. Read more>>

Thursday, March 10, 2005

UIS Theater to present Fifth of July

The UIS Theater Program's spring production will be Lanford Wilson's comedy-drama The Fifth of July. Set in 1977, the story deals with a group of old friends and the changes that have occurred in their lives and attitudes in the years since they were antiwar activists in college. Critics have hailed the play as “a major work by one of the theater’s most important and celebrated writers…alternately funny and moving.”

Six performances will be presented: Friday, Saturday, Sunday, April 1-3 and 8-10, in the Studio Theatre. All performances will be at 8 p.m. except the two Sunday performances, which will be at 2 p.m. Read more>>

Tuesday, March 08, 2005

"Machinist Studies" next at Visual Arts Gallery

“Michael Dunbar: Machinist Studies” will be on display from March 22 through April 21 at the UIS Visual Arts Gallery. An opening reception will be held from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Friday, April 1, in the gallery and a special Artist’s Lecture is set for 7 p.m. Thursday, April 7, in PAC C/D.

Dunbar’s machinists studies, initially conceived as models for larger works and nearly all composed of bronze, “employ the most sophisticated industrial technology, yet continue to define his personal identity." Read more>>

Monday, March 07, 2005

UIS faculty member named to St. Augustine BOT

UIS faculty member Anthony Sisneros has been selected to serve on the Board of Trustees for St. Augustine College in Chicago. Established in 1980, St. Augustine is an independent, bilingual institution created to make higher education accessible to a diverse student population, with emphasis on Hispanics.

Sisneros said he is honored to have been considered and selected. “I consider service on this board as the most significant challenge in my career,” he said. Read more>>

Friday, March 04, 2005

College of Education and Human Services to host alumni roundtable

UIS' College of Education and Human Services will host its first roundtable program from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, in PAC conference room C/D. This is the first event sponsored by the newly formed CEHS Alumni Council. Faculty members from various programs within the college will make short presentations and a light supper will be served. Read more>>

Taste of UIS presents history of the women's movement

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will present “International Women’s Movements a Century Ago: Buried History, Repeated History” from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday, March 23, at Maldaner’s Upstairs, 222 South Sixth St., Springfield. This is the second program in the spring Taste of UIS Series and the speaker is Margot Duley, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Read more>>

Wednesday, March 02, 2005

UIS faculty member publishes book on William Maxwell

A UIS faculty member is the author of the first major critical study of renowned Illinois writer William Maxwell’s life and work. University of Illinois Press has announced the publication of William Maxwell: A Literary Life by Barbara Burkhardt, an assistant professor of English at UIS. Burkhardt was a close acquaintance of Maxwell and conducted extensive interviews with him over a ten-year period before his death in July 2000 at age 91. Read more>>

Tuesday, March 01, 2005

New scholarship available for UIS students with disabilities

Applications are being accepted for the Friends of UIS Scholarship for Students with Disabilities, a new scholarship at UIS that will be awarded for the first time for the 2005-2006 academic year. Two scholarships of $1,000 each are available.

Eligible students must be enrolled for at least four credit hours each semester, have a minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00, and must be registered with the UIS Office of Disability Services. Read more>>

Friday, February 25, 2005

National honor society inducts charter members at UIS

Induction ceremonies for 13 charter members of the UIS chapter of the National Communication Association honor society will be held at 3 p.m. Sunday, February 27, in PAC conference room C/D. To be eligible for membership, communication students must maintain a 3.25 GPA in the major. NCA is the oldest and largest national organization serving the academic discipline of communication. Read more>>

Fall '04 Deans' List

Nearly 380 UIS students were named to the Deans' List for the 2004 fall semester. Get a printable list of names>>

Thursday, February 24, 2005

UIS music presents Brown Bag Concert

Music groups at UIS will present their annual Spring Brown Bag Concert from noon to 1 p.m. Friday, March 4, in the Visual Arts Gallery. The concert is free and the public is invited to “bring your lunch and hear some great music." Read more>>

Wednesday, February 23, 2005

Women's Issues Caucus to present play

The Women’s Issues Caucus at UIS will host a production of Eve Ensler’s award-winning play The Vagina Monologues at 8 p.m., Saturday, March 5, in the PAC Studio Theatre. The event is presented as part of the V-Day 2005 Worldwide/College Campaign, a global movement designed to raise money and awareness for organizations that work to stop violence against women and girls. The 12 cast members are all UIS students. Read more>>

Tuesday, February 22, 2005

UIS to present workshop on "Death, Grief, and Loss"

A workshop on “Death, Grief, and Loss” will be presented from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, March 7, in PAC conference room H. The program will be led by Carolyn Peck, assistant professor of Human Services-Gerontology.

Peck will illustrate ways to be supportive and will discuss physical, psychological, and sociological components as they relate to both the dying individual and the caregivers. Read more>>

Friday, February 18, 2005

Expanding Your Horizons focuses on careers for girls

“Expanding Your Horizons in Math, Science, and Technology” -- a hands-on conference designed specially for girls in sixth, seventh, and eighth grades -- will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, March 12, in the PAC.

Participants will choose three sessions from among 20 interactive workshops, each one led by a successful professional who will share information about her job and what education and skills it requires. Read more>>

Alumni in Government Breakfast

The University of Illinois Alumni Association at UIS will sponsor its annual Alumni in Government Breakfast from 7:30 to 8:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 8, at the Executive Mansion in downtown Springfield. The event is designed for alumni whose employment relates in any way to government, as well as for those who are simply interested in government or in UIS. Read more>>

Tuesday, February 15, 2005

Annual Springfield Collegiate Career Fair

The career planning and placement offices at UIS, Lincoln Land, Robert Morris College, and Springfield College in Illinois (in partnership with Benedictine University) will host the seventh annual Springfield Collegiate Career Fair from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Friday, February 25, in the lower level of the PAC. A number of related activities are planned to help participants take full advantage of what the fair has to offer. Representatives from approximately 100 area employers are expected to be on hand. Read more>>

Thursday, February 10, 2005

Faculty member to discuss new book on William Maxwell

UIS faculty member Barbara Burkhardt will discuss her new book William Maxwell: A Literary Life at 7 p.m. Tuesday, February 15, in Brookens Auditorium. The presentation is sponsored by Friends of Brookens Library; a book signing and reception will follow. Read more>>

Anniversary reception and program to honor WUIS and Illinois Issues

A reception and program celebrating the 30th anniversaries of public radio station WUIS and Illinois Issues magazine will be held Thursday, February 24, at the Executive Mansion, Fifth and Jackson Streets, downtown Springfield. The reception will begin at 6 p.m., followed by the program at 7:15 p.m. The event is open to the public, however reservations are required.

Kevin Klose, president and CEO of National Public Radio, and Mike Lawrence, director of the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, will deliver keynote addresses. J. Michael Lennon, former publisher of Illinois Issues, will be master of ceremonies. Read more>>

Wednesday, February 09, 2005

Presentation examines "Economic Consequences of the Tsunami"

“The Economic Consequences of the Tsunami” will be the subject of a presentation by Dr. Baker Siddiquee at 7 p.m. Thursday, February 17, in PAC conference room C/D. Siddiquee is associate professor of Economics at UIS. Read more>>

Taste of UIS features panel of WUIS alumni

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will present “How UIS/WUIS Prepared Me for the World,” the first program in this spring’s Taste of UIS: Distinguished Faculty/Alumni Lunchtime Lecture Series. The program observes the 30th anniversary of the campus' public radio station with a panel representing three decades of students who worked there. Read more>>

Rwandan ambassador at UIS

His Excellency Dr. Zac Nsenga, Rwandan ambassador to the United States, spoke on “Rwanda, Ten Years After,” on Wednesday morning, February 9, in Brookens Auditorium. Dr. Nsenga’s appearance was hosted by the International Studies Department at UIS. Read more>>

Program examines effective online learning practices

“Learning Effectiveness: What the Research Tells Us” is the topic of a brown bag presentation beginning at noon on Friday, February 11, in PAC conference room C/D.

The speaker will be Dr. Karen Swan, a professor in the Research Center for Educational Technology at Kent State University and a widely published, well-respected scholar in the online community. Swan will discuss effective practices in online learning. Read more>>

"Merge" is next at Visual Arts Gallery

Photographers Bea Nettles and Fern Logan will display their works in the joint exhibit "Merge," February 14 to March 10 at the Visual Arts Gallery at UIS.
An Artists’ Program and Reception is scheduled for Thursday, March 3. Read more>>

New scholarship for students with musical talent

UIS students with musical talent can now apply for the Suzanna Kay Shiner Scholarship, a new award that will provide $1,000 to one student each year, whether they have previously participated in a campus music group or not. The award is open to students of academic merit in any major. Read more>>

UIS to present Black and Gay Film Series

UIS student group SASSI (Students against Sexual Stereotypes and Inequality), in conjunction with the course Sexual Orientation and Public Policy, will sponsor a Black and Gay Film Series, Thursdays in February. All films will be shown at noon in PAC conference room E, and are free and open to the public. The series is presented in observance of Black History Month and explores the lives of gay and lesbian African-Americans. Read more>>

Tuesday, February 01, 2005

Professor publishes new book

UIS faculty member Rosina Neginsky will sign copies of her new book, Zinaida Vengerova: In Search of Beauty. A Literary Ambassador between East and West, at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, February 17, at the Springfield Art Association, 700 N. Fourth St., Springfield. A reception will follow.

Though little-known today, Vengerova was in her lifetime an important Symbolist writer and literary critic. Neginsky describes her book as “a biography, but also a cultural history and literary criticism that discusses issues related to the turn of the century in Europe.” Read more>>

"A Taste of UIS" returns

The U of I Alumni Association at UIS will sponsor A Taste of UIS: Distinguished Faculty/Alumni Lunchtime Lectures, a series of three monthly presentations to be held at Maldaner’s Upstairs, 222 South Sixth St., Springfield. The programs are open to the public; however, reservations are required.

The first program, on Wednesday, February 23, will observe the 30th anniversary of campus public radio station WUIS with “How UIS/WUIS Prepared Me for the World.” Read more>>

SBC Foundation presents $136,000 in technology grants to UIS

SBC Foundation has awarded grants totaling almost $136,000 to UIS and partner organizations to fund technology programs for GEAR UP and the university’s Online Mathematics Teacher Certification.

The UIS GEAR UP Partnership received two grants totaling $100,000 to help promote college readiness for low-income students. A $36,000 grant will go to UIS' Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning, College of Education and Human Services, and College of Liberal Arts and Sciences to fund online secondary education toward teaching certification in mathematics. Read more>>

Monday, January 31, 2005

SBC grants to be announced

Chancellor Ringeisen and SBC Illinois President Carrie Hightman will announce major educational technology grants to UIS and partner organizations.

10 a.m. Tuesday, February 1, PAC Conference Room H

Read more>>

History Club to present "Road to Brown"

“The Road to Brown,” a documentary about the legal strategy employed by the NAACP in its efforts to desegregate schools, will be shown at 7 p.m. Thursday, February 10, in Brookens Auditorium, lower level of Brookens Library at UIS. Both the film and a question-and-answer session immediately following are free and open to the public. Read more>>

Auditions set for spring production

The Theatre Program at UIS will hold open auditions for its spring production, the comedy-drama Fifth of July by Lanford Wilson, at 7 p.m. Sunday, February 13, and Monday, February 14, in the Studio Theatre, located on PAC level one. Auditions for eight roles – four men and four women – are open to anyone, with or without experience. Read more>>

Friday, January 28, 2005

UIS, UPI Local 4100 reach agreement on salary increase

The University of Illinois at Springfield and the University Professionals of Illinois Local 4100 have reached agreement on a one-year contract that includes a salary increase of 3.1% for all bargaining unit members. The agreement is retroactive to August 29, 2004. Read more>>

UIS to take part in national "Read-In"

Students, faculty, and staff from UIS will join over a million readers from across the nation in the 16th Annual African American Read-In on Monday, February 7. That day, members of the UIS community will visit six area elementary schools to read to assemblies of students.

The event, sponsored by the Black Caucus of the National Council of Teachers of English and the NCTE in observance of Black History Month, is designed to celebrate black writers and their contributions to literature. This year, UIS has chosen to read the works of Virginia Hamilton. Read more>>

Thursday, January 27, 2005

UIS expands opportunities for study abroad

The Global Experience Program at UIS has expanded its opportunities for study abroad with the addition of two new international exchange programs. Chancellor Ringeisen signed official agreements with Veritas, a social service agency based in Romania, and with Charles Darwin University in Australia at a ceremony held Thursday afternoon, January 27. This brings the number of international institutions with which UIS has formal affiliations to five.

This summer, students and area residents also have the opportunity to study abroad in six different two- to three-week courses. Read more>>