Wednesday, December 26, 2012

Endowed fund allows for collaborative research between UIS and the SIU School of Medicine

Former University of Illinois Springfield professor Caryl Moy is being remembered with a special gift that bridges both UIS and the SIU School of Medicine.

Richard Moy, M.D., former dean of the Southern Illinois University School of Medicine, and his sons Philip and Eric Moy have given a $250,000 endowed fund to UIS in honor of their wife and mother, former professor Caryl Moy. The Caryl Towsley Moy, Ph.D., Fund for Collaborative Research will support faculty from UIS and the SIU School of Medicine who do team-based research.

"Caryl would be delighted with the collaborative nature of this research," said Richard Moy. "She was very comfortable at both institutions, and she would be happy to create opportunities for faculty."

Caryl Moy taught for 21 years at UIS (then Sangamon State University) beginning in 1970. Earlier she had been a high school home economics teacher. After earning a master’s degree in social work, she moved with her family to Springfield in 1970, where she began teaching sociology at Sangamon State. After earning her doctorate in 1980, as she continued to teach at SSU, she also served as clinical professor at the SIU Medical School.

"We are deeply grateful to Dr. Moy and his sons, Phillip and Eric, for this wonderful gift," said UIS Chancellor Susan J. Koch. "It honors so appropriately the memory of their wife and mother, Caryl Towsley Moy. I am particularly pleased that this fund will make possible team-based collaborative faculty research at UIS and the SIU School of Medicine. With support provided by the Caryl Towsley Moy, Ph.D., Endowed Fund for Collaborative Research, the research will benefit both institutions and will foster new knowledge in many important fields of inquiry."

Caryl Moy's honors include being named a Distinguished Professor Emeritus at UIS and selection by a committee of historians as one of 12 women who made a difference in Springfield. While teaching, she also had a private family therapy practice and became the founding president of a family planning agency.

"Anyone who knew Caryl Moy knows she was a force to be reckoned with," said Dr. Kevin Dorsey, dean of the SIU School of Medicine. "When UIS and SIU School of Medicine were beginning, Caryl was a tireless worker to help both institutions gain community support. Her intelligence, wit and fiery spirit made her a deft collaborator."

Richard Moy looks forward to the time when faculty from both institutions can say with pride, "I'm getting a Caryl Moy grant."

With their gift, the Moys have guaranteed that faculty at both UIS and SIU School of Medicine will be making this statement for many years to come.

For more information, contact Sarah Jennings, UIS director of development for corporate and foundation relations and major gifts, at sjenn02s@uis.edu.

Thursday, December 20, 2012

UIS College of Business and Management maintains prestigious AACSB Accreditation

The College of Business and Management at the University of Illinois Springfield has received word that it has been reaccredited by AACSB International – The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business.

“I am delighted that the UIS College of Business and Management has been reaccredited by AACSB, the world’s premier accrediting organization for collegiate schools of business,” said Chancellor Susan Koch. “This recognition affirms the high-quality professional preparation and leadership opportunities that UIS Business students experience when they choose UIS.”

Continued accreditation places the UIS College of Business and Management among an elite group of business programs – less than 5 percent of business programs worldwide and just over a quarter of U.S. business schools have earned this prestigious recognition.

“Being among AACSB accredited business schools is testimony that the UIS College of Business and Management is a leader in preparing our students to work in all types of business and business related organizations,” said Ron McNeil, dean of the UIS College of Business and Management.

The accreditation assures student and employers that the UIS College of Business and Management delivers relevant and high quality classes and programs; employs first rate teachers, and faculty who are engaged in their discipline and relevant research.

The AACSB accreditation shows UIS offers high quality programs that are current, relevant, and reflect the complexities of today’s business environment. AACSB is the gold standard for business colleges. Employers are increasingly seeking graduates from AACSB accredited business schools knowing that students’ education has developed competencies that will support a competitive edge in today’s complex global markets.

“It takes a great deal of commitment and determination to earn and maintain AACSB Accreditation,” said Robert Reid, executive vice president and chief accreditation officer of AACSB International. “Business schools must not only meet specific standards of excellence, but their deans, faculty and professional staff must make a commitment to ongoing continuous improvement to ensure that the institution will continue to deliver the highest quality of education to students.”

The UIS College of Business and Management offers undergraduate programs in Accountancy, Business Administration, Economics, Management, Management Information Systems, and Marketing. Graduate degrees offered include Accountancy and Management Information Systems and the MBA. Fully online undergraduate degree completion programs are offered in Business, Management and Management Information Systems. The graduate Management Information Systems program is also offered fully online.

To learn more about University of Illinois Springfield, visit www.uis.edu. For more on the AACSB International accreditation, visit the accreditation section of the AACSB International website at www.aacsb.edu/accreditation/.

Wednesday, November 14, 2012

UIS part of national study exploring credit-worthiness for massive open online courses

The University of Illinois Springfield is part of a nationwide study that will examine the academic potential of massive open online courses (MOOCs). MOOCs are free online courses offered to very large numbers of students, mostly not for college credit.

The research is being coordinated by the American Council on Education (ACE) with financial support provided by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

Among the questions ACE will address in research undertaken in collaboration with the University of Illinois Springfield's Center for Online Learning, Research, and Service (COLRS) are to what extent do MOOCs reach low-income young adult and older adult learners, what is the level of satisfaction of students enrolled in MOOCs, and do MOOCs have the potential to help lead to degrees or certificates. COLRS researchers will also explore types of MOOC teaching practices. This work will be performed using data from several MOOC platforms, including Coursera.

“MOOCs have the potential to make a huge difference in providing access to learning worldwide, so it is very important that we identify the best practices and approaches in effectively teaching students enrolled in this new way,” said research coordinator Ray Schroeder, UIS associate vice chancellor for online learning.

Dean Emeritus Bill Bloemer, an expert in learning analytics, and Distinguished Professor Karen Swan, a national expert on online teaching and learning effectiveness will head up the research initiative.

Also as part of the research, a pilot project with a small number of colleges and universities will be established to determine whether or not MOOCs are successful in re-engaging adult learners.

MOOCs are free online courses. Students worldwide can take part according to their own schedule and skip sections that are not of interest. Currently no academic or continuing education credit is awarded for MOOCs offered at UIS.

In the summer of 2011, UIS offered a MOOC on education that drew some 2,700 participants from 70 different countries, which studied the present and future of online learning. Another MOOC exploring the Emancipation Proclamation is being planned for early next year. The course will be offered starting on January 28, 2013. For more information, visit https://uis.coursesites.com/. Currently, no academic or continuing education credit is awarded for MOOCs offered at UIS.

For more information on the massive open online course research, contact Ray Schroeder at 217/206-7531 or rschr1@uis.edu.

Thursday, November 08, 2012

U of I leaders tour UIS Emiquon Field Station and preserve



Leaders from the University of Illinois recently toured the UIS Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon and the Emiquon Preserve learning about the research and collaboration taking place.

U of I Board of Trustees Chairman Christopher Kennedy, Trustee Edward McMillan, President Robert Easter, UIS Chancellor Susan Koch and other leaders took part in the tour.

“If I was a student, I’d be really excited about the opportunity to be a part of all of this. I think any school that you can mix biology, computer science, history and the great love for the state in one place is incredible,” said Kennedy.

The UIS Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon opened its doors in 2008 after years of planning and development. It now plays hosts to researchers from around the world and hundreds of elementary, high school, and college students each year.

“I think for us as a university, it helps us continue to reinforce our mission,” said McMillan.

The 14,000 acre Emiquon complex was recently designated as a “Wetlands of International Importance” by the Ramsar Convention. It is one of only 34 Ramsar sites in the United States.

“I’m delighted to see this campus, UIS, involved here,” said Easter. “It indicates a maturity evolving with the campus where it takes on these projects. It’s more than just a small campus.”

Chancellor Koch credits great faculty members, such as Field Station Director and Biology Professor Mike Lemke, for coming up with the idea for an Emiquon research station.

“What we saw today was a wonderful example of what happens when wonderful professors really get engaged with the environment,” said Koch.

Lemke, who researches microbes at Emiquon, says it is unique for a right-sized university, such as UIS, to have a field station in the middle of an internationally significant wetland.

“This is a world-class wetland event and we happen to have a front row seat here,” said Lemke.

Learn more about Emiquon and the UIS Therkildsen Field Station at www.uis.edu/emiquon.

Monday, November 05, 2012

UIS students tie hundreds of yellow ribbons to honor Veterans



University of Illinois Springfield students, veterans, and community members gathered on November 4, 2012 to tie yellow ribbons on trees around campus. The ribbons will honor veterans throughout the month of November.

UIS student Samia Ahmad, a junior criminal justice and political science major, came up with the idea as a way to honor her boyfriend who’s deployed overseas. When she told others, the project quickly grew.

“I wanted to tie one yellow ribbon on the tree outside my apartment and it expanded to where I started talking to people about it and they were like why don’t you do every tree on campus,” said Ahmad.

Among those who helped tie the ribbons were veterans Chad Sibley and Adam Raboin, who are currently working to finish their degrees at UIS.

“We have to recognize our veterans,” said Sibley. “If it wasn’t for our military we wouldn’t have the rights that we have now.”

Both Sibley and Raboin took time out to write the names of fellow service members on ribbons.

“To me it’s more of a memorial thing,” said Raboin. “We lost guys in my tour. Some of these ribbons actually have the names of those guys that we lost.”

Ahmad hopes that the yellow ribbon campaign will become an annual tradition at UIS.

UIS will also be holding a Veterans Day flag raising on Monday, November 12 at 9 a.m. in front of the Public Affairs Center.

Thursday, November 01, 2012

UIS students collect over 6,500 pounds of food on Halloween



Over 150 students from the University of Illinois Springfield went door-to-door on Halloween collecting over 6,500 pounds of food for the Central Illinois Foodbank.

The drive was all part of the annual Trick or Treat for Canned Goods competition where 14 teams battled to see who could collect the most pounds. The students canvassed assigned Springfield, Chatham, and Rochester neighborhoods collecting non-perishable food items.

“We’ve had a lot of good reception,” said Tina Buck, a senior communication major. “People are very grateful that we’re out here in the community. (We) could be doing something else on Halloween instead we’re giving back.”

William Newton, a freshman political science major from Chicago, realizes the importance of giving back to his new community.

“If you don’t help your own community nobody will help it,” said Newton. “This is a great opportunity to show that though you may be homeless or in need we are here and ready to help you.”

Before Halloween, the teams visited the same neighborhoods distributing door hangers that explained the project. Many residents left bags of food waiting for the teams at their front door on Halloween night.

“This is really great. It helps the Springfield community and the surrounding communities. And it helps everyday people that you see,” said Brittany Carls, a sophomore business management major.

The Central Illinois Foodbank distributes over 8 million pounds of food annually to over 150 food pantries, soup kitchens, residential programs and after-school programs in a 21 county region.

“Right here in central Illinois, 3-4 children by the national definition are food insecure. So, there’s a huge need for what we’re doing today,” said Mark Dochterman, director of the UIS Volunteer & Civic Engagement Center.

The canned food drive is part of the UIS Holiday Stars Project, a campus-wide service initiative giving focus to UIS’ efforts to make a difference in the local community during the holiday season.

Award Winners: 
Most Pounds Award - Lambda Pi Eta (854 Pounds)
Most Pounds Per Team Member - Communications Club (670 Pounds)
Best Costumes & Team Spirit – Christian Student Fellowship

Wednesday, October 31, 2012

UIS expands online reach by partnering with California's Coastline Community College

The University of Illinois Springfield is among three universities partnering with California’s Coastline Community College to create a seamless pathway for students to earn an online bachelor’s degree.

“The model – developed at UIS and refined over the past dozen years - holds many advantages for students and institutions,” said Ray Schroeder, UIS associate vice chancellor for online learning. “It provides a near seamless melding of the community college and the university in the academic program of the student.”

Students will complete 30 credit hours of coursework at the community college and then be concurrently enrolled at UIS and the community college for the next two years – taking classes online at both UIS and the community college. During this period of time, the student receives an associate’s degree from the community college.

“Since the student is enrolled at both institutions, the libraries, learning centers, advising and other services of both the university and the college are available to assist the student in making smooth and steady progress toward the degree,” said Schroeder.

The student’s final 30 credit hours are taken at UIS, culminating in the bachelor’s degree. UIS offers seven bachelor’s degrees using this model including: Business Administration, Computer Science, English, History, Liberal Studies, Mathematics, and Philosophy.

The UIS one-two-one online learning model has proven very successful. It is now being expanded in a Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Project led by the League for Innovation for the Community College. Joining UIS in the project are the Penn State University’s World Campus and the University of Massachusetts Online.

The partnership is expected to serve as a model for expanding the capacity at community colleges in California, which have been forced to turn way students due to budget cuts.

For more information, contact Schroeder at 217/206-7531 or rschr1@uis.edu.

Tuesday, October 30, 2012

UIS Illinois Innocence Project helps innocent man gain freedom in Marion County case

The Illinois Innocence Project, housed at the University of Illinois Springfield, helped Anthony Murray, 40, of Chicago gain his freedom Tuesday. This is the fifth case where the project has helped a wrongfully convicted individual gain his or her freedom.

Murray was previously convicted of first degree murder 14 years ago for his alleged involvement in the death of Seneca Jones of downstate Centralia, Ill. He was sentenced to 45 years in prison. Murray is expected to be released Wednesday from the Illinois Department of Corrections.

In order to gain his freedom, he reluctantly accepted a plea for second degree murder and was released based on time served in prison. The plea, called an Alford Plea, allows an individual to gain freedom by pleading guilty to a lesser offense, while still maintaining innocence for the crime he/she is entering a plea. Murray has maintained his innocence throughout, but indicated he had served 14 years in prison, during which 15 relatives and friends had died, and he just wanted to go home to his mother and family.

“Given new evidence of Anthony’s innocence, it is clear that Anthony was not even at the scene of the murder,” said Larry Golden, executive director of the Illinois Innocence Project. “The original conviction was an injustice that should never have occurred. While we are pleased that Anthony can walk out of prison, he should have been able to do so as a fully exonerated person. This is just another injustice allowed by a criminal justice system badly in need of reform.”

Murray asked for the help of the Illinois Innocence Project, which engaged in an in-depth investigation of his case. That investigation yielded new and corroborating evidence of Murray’s innocence in the crime. However, the Marion County States Attorney insisted that Murray take the plea in order to be released.

Many students and staff from UIS, the Southern Illinois University Law School, and the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign College of Law, some of whom were present Tuesday, worked on Murray’s case under the overall supervision of Illinois Innocence Project Legal Director John Hanlon who led the effort to gain Murray’s release.

This is the second time this year that the Illinois Innocence Project has freed an innocent person for a crime they did not commit. The Project continues to work on 25 additional cases. It recently changed its name from the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project to the Illinois Innocence Project to reflect the fact that it is now accepting cases throughout Illinois in collaboration with the three Illinois public law schools at Northern Illinois University, the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, and Southern Illinois University.

For more information on the exoneration, contact Illinois Innocence Project Legal Director John Hanlon at 217/206-8558.

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The Illinois Innocence Project (IIP) has a three-part mission: to evaluate and investigate cases for credible claims of an Illinois inmate's actual innocence, and, when appropriate, provide legal representation and/or other assistance toward proving the inmate's actual innocence; to encourage meaningful reforms toward preventing the conviction of innocent persons in the future; and to educate the public and provide important educational and experiential opportunities for students about wrongful convictions. Visit www.uis.edu/innocenceproject for additional information.

Tuesday, October 23, 2012

Illinois Lt. Gov. Sheila Simon talks about college affordability at UIS

 

Illinois Lt. Governor Sheila Simon met with students, administrators, and faculty/staff at the University of Illinois Springfield on October 23, 2012 as part of her statewide College Affordability Summit.

Simon, who serves as the Governor’s point person on education reform, met with a group of UIS students who explained how they use federal work study and state grants to cover costs. Simon wants to maximize the use of state and federal funds to support higher education.

“It’s a tough request, particularly in a era when the state has zero extra money to be spending, so we have to be really careful about how we use our resources,” said Simon.

Nekira Cooper, a UIS sophomore studying criminal justice, receives the MAP grant, Pell grant, private scholarships, loans, federal work study and works off campus on the weekends to pay for college. Despite the challenges in piecing together college financing, Cooper remains positive and looks forward to joining the Air Force as an officer upon graduation.

“I grew up in a neighborhood where college wasn’t on anyone’s mind,” said Cooper, the first in her family to enroll in college. “I’ve stayed focused and kept my grades up – sometimes I can’t believe I made it to college.”

With cooperation from state, federal and higher education leaders, Simon believes increased transparency, targeted state aid and a permanent federal tax credit for middle class families would make college more affordable for Illinois students.

“As a state, we want to increase the proportion of working-age adults with a college degree or credential to 60 percent, up from 41 percent, by 2025. The only way we can achieve this goal is if college is affordable,” said Simon.

UIS is Simon’s sixth stop as she seeks to hold an affordability summit at each of the state’s public universities this fall.

Monday, October 08, 2012

UIS celebrates 16th annual Homecoming



The University of Illinois Springfield celebrated its 16th annual Homecoming on Sept. 30-Oct. 6, 2012. The theme for this year’s celebration was “Bright Lights, Blue City”.

Participants packed the campus for the annual Homecoming Parade, BBQ and the men’s and women’s soccer games on Friday, Oct. 5. Saturday featured the annual 5K Run/Walk, family entertainment, the UIS Students vs. Alumni/Faculty/Staff Basketball game, and homecoming dance.

As part of the U-Help, I-Help service event, the UIS Volunteer & Civic Engagement Center and Office of UIS Alumni Relations hosted 40 high school students from Springfield Public School's AVID Tutoring Program on Friday. UIS students talked to the juniors and seniors about what to expect in college and how to prepare. Students also prepared food to support a Habitat for Humanity build.

Members of the Capital Scholars Honors Program’s Class of 2007 reunited on campus on Saturday. Earlier in the week, a Homecoming Pep Rally and Scheels Spirit Games were held.

Thursday, October 04, 2012

Associate Professor of English Lan Dong named the 2012 University Scholar at UIS

Lan Dong, associate professor of English at the University of Illinois Springfield, has been named University Scholar for 2012. She was the only UIS faculty member chosen for this award honoring and rewarding outstanding teachers and scholars at the three U of I campuses.

“She is a model teacher-scholar and a rising star in American literary studies,” said Lynn Pardie, UIS provost and vice chancellor of academic affairs. “She works across sociohistorical and cultural contexts, analyzes important themes and issues in literary and visual texts to increase understanding of race, ethnicity, and gender issues in Asian and Asian American literature.”

Dong has been an extraordinarily productive scholar since joining the faculty at UIS, publishing a major monograph, an edited collection of essays, and multiple journal articles and book chapters, as well as delivering numerous scholarly presentations at conferences in her field. She has been called “the world authority on the iterations of Mulan,” and her recent monograph, Mulan’s Legend and Legacy in China and the United States, has received very high praise.

She teaches a wide array of courses within her areas of expertise and at every level of the undergraduate curriculum – much to the delight of her students, both online and on campus. Despite the intellectually challenging nature of her courses, she is highly regarded as a passionate and talented teacher by her students as well as by her colleagues. Her courses are carefully designed and constructed to foster an appreciation for diverse cultures; to strengthen critical reading, analysis, and writing skills; to promote a sense of social responsibility; and to encourage collaboration and creativity.

“True to the model of an ideal teacher-scholar, whereby the integrity of teaching and research are preserved as separate but mutually influential and enriching endeavors, Dong has also contributed to the scholarship of teaching within her field, presenting and publishing on the teaching of graphic novels,” said Pardie.

Dong holds a B.A. in Chinese Literature from Beijing University, an M.A. in Comparative Literature from Dartmouth College, and a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst.

As University Scholar, she will receive $10,000 a year for three years to support research and other scholarly activities. Faculty do not apply for this award; they are nominated by their peers. A committee of senior faculty makes the final selection.

Wednesday, October 03, 2012

Online learning organizations create a national e-learning alliance

Funded on a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to the University Professional and Continuing Education Association (UPCEA), a task force comprised of representatives of leading national organizations in online and e-learning in higher education, has issued a report on the future of online learning in higher education. The Task Force includes representatives from the American Distance Education Consortium (ADEC), the Association of Continuing Higher Education (ACHE), EDUCAUSE, the Sloan Consortium (Sloan-C), UPCEA and the WICHE Cooperative for Educational Technologies (WCET).

The Summit on the Future of Online Learning held in Chicago in September 2011 addressed many of the issues facing online learning in higher education today. An outcome of the Summit was a grant from the Alfred P. Sloan Foundation to convene an Inter-Organizational Task Force on Online Learning.

“Each of these organizations is deeply engaged in the development, delivery and support of high quality online education,” said Robert Hansen, CEO of UPCEA. “This report lays the foundation for working together with the goal of advancing the interests of the students and institutions we serve through quality online learning.”

The report, issued October 3, 2012, has six main objectives: 

1. Create the capacity to better inform online learning policy-making and regulation by establishing a formal alliance of organizations dedicated to advancing online education

2. Inform public policymakers and higher education leaders of the fundamental importance of online learning in serving the new “traditional” student: the adult learner

3. Make the connection between online learning, the economy, workforce development, and access, and communicate that connection to policymakers and higher education leaders

4. Give presidents and provosts the information and tools they need to make online education a key strategic asset for financial sustainability and mission fulfillment

5. Engage policymakers and other key stakeholders in conversations about new opportunities for innovation afforded by e-learning

6. Use the overwhelming body of research demonstrating the quality of online learning to dispel the lingering skepticism of policymakers and the public at-large

“This is a unique initiative among the leading national associations in online and e-learning in higher education,” said Ray Schroeder, Chair of the Task Force and Associate Vice Chancellor at the University of Illinois Springfield. “In the rapidly evolving online environment, it is important that we draw upon the knowledge and experience of those who represent the colleges and universities who have demonstrated their commitment to quality and innovation in this field.”

For more information, contact Schroeder at 217/206-7531 or rschr1@uis.edu. Please visit www.upcea.edu to view the full report.

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Located in Washington, D.C., UPCEA serves more than 370 institutions of higher education with a focus on professional, continuing, and online learning. The Association provides its members with educational publications, programs, conferences, and services for the advancement of lifelong learning. UPCEA promotes awareness of the needs of adult learners and recognizes best practices in the field.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

UIS 16th annual Homecoming Weekend events announced

SPRINGFIELD - The University of Illinois Springfield invites the local community to celebrate our 16th annual Homecoming Weekend on October 5 & 6. The theme of Homecoming 2012 is “Bright Lights, Blue City”. The following is a partial list of events. To view a full list of Homecoming activities, visit www.uis.edu/homecoming.

UIS Homecoming Parade 

WHAT: The parade is an annual tradition of Homecoming at UIS. We hope you come out to enjoy the festivities, the UIS band and much more!

WHEN: Friday, October 5, 2012 at 4:15 p.m.

WHERE: UIS Campus – The parade will start in parking lot C-north and end in parking lot G south of the University Hall Building. The best place to view the parade is along Eliza Farnham Drive, near Founders Residence Hall.

DETAILS: Community members are encouraged to attend to watch the parade, enjoy, and learn more about the many student organizations, athletics teams, campus departments, businesses, and nonprofits that participate in the parade.

UIS Homecoming BBQ 

WHAT: The UIS Student Activities Committee (SAC) will host its annual BBQ following the parade. This will coincide with the soccer games.

WHEN: Friday, October 5, 2012 from 4:45 to 7:15 p.m.

WHERE: South Quad near the University Hall Building

DETAILS: Come join us for food, drinks, and fun. The cost for non-students is $10, which also includes admission to the UIS soccer games. UIS students are free with a valid iCard.

UIS Prairie Stars Men’s and Women’s Soccer 

WHAT: The NCAA Division II men’s and women’s soccer teams will play St. Joseph’s College during the annual homecoming game.

WHEN: Friday, October 5, 2012 – The women’s game begins at 5 p.m., followed by the men’s game at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE: Kiwanis Stadium at UIS

DETAILS: Admission to the games is $6 for adults, who are not attending the BBQ. Children and UIS students are FREE. Student must show valid ID. Following the men’s soccer game, there will be a free fireworks display.

Homecoming 5K Run/Walk 

WHAT: The Department of Recreational Sports at UIS is hosting the 4th annual Homecoming 5K Run/Walk. The race is open to all UIS students, faculty, staff and community members.

WHEN: Saturday, October 6, 2012 with registration beginning at 7:30 a.m. and the race starting at 9 a.m.

WHERE: The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) at UIS

DETAILS: The cost to enter the 5K is $28 for the general public prior to the event or $33 the day of the event. Registration forms can be found at the Rec Sports office in TRAC or can be downloaded from the Rec Sports website at www.uis.edu/recsports/.

Saturday Family Activities 

WHAT: A variety of family activities are planned for Saturday.

WHEN: Saturday, October 6, 2012 from 1-3 p.m.

WHERE: UIS Quad, unless otherwise noted.

DETAILS: Kid’s Corner/Kid’s Crafts/Spirit Wear Contest from 1-3 p.m. on the quad; Chemistry Presentation (ages 5-12) from 1-3 p.m. in the Health Sciences Building (HSB); Jenga Tournament (ages 12-18) on the quad from 1-3 p.m.; Solar Telescope Showcase from 1-3 p.m. on the quad; Tech Tools and Gadgets presented by Kara McElwrath from 1-2 p.m. in University Hall (UHB), room 2027.

UIS Students vs. UIS Alumni/Faculty/Staff Basketball Game 

WHAT: Students will face off against Alumni/Faculty/Staff in a basketball game designed to foster teamwork.

WHEN: Saturday, October 6, 2011 at 7 p.m.

WHERE: The Recreation and Athletic Center (TRAC) at UIS

DETAILS: Admission is free

To view a full list of Homecoming activities visit www.uis.edu/homecoming.

Friday, September 21, 2012

Student government Fall 2012 election results

Election results from the Fall 2012 Student Government Association elections have been certified. Voting took place on Wednesday, September 19 and Thursday, September 20.

The following students are the winners of their respective races:

Senator: Education & Human Services - Blake Johnson

Senator: Transfer Students - Dane Vincent

Senator: Undergraduate Students - Justin Keenan

Senator: Freshman Students - Brian Geiger

Senator: Online Students - Barbara Matthews

Senator: Graduate Students - Ying Liu

Senator: At-Large (2 positions) - Samia Ahmad, Joseph McGee

As in every election, not all candidates were successful in obtaining their desired position. There are numerous other leadership opportunities on SGA committees that students may wish to pursue and they are highly encouraged to do so.

Congratulations to all candidates as they demonstrated leadership through their willingness to assume the responsibility associated with these important positions!

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Lorber named UIS Vice Chancellor for Development and Senior Vice President of the U of I Foundation

Jeff Lorber has been named Vice Chancellor for Development at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS) and Senior Vice President of the University of Illinois Foundation (UIF). As Vice Chancellor and Senior Vice President, he will provide leadership for the strategy development and management of fundraising plans, priorities, and activities at UIS. Lorber will work in close collaboration with UIS Chancellor Susan Koch and UIF President Sidney Micek.

“Jeff is a seasoned development professional with an exceptional background in higher education and community engagement,” said Chancellor Koch. “He brings an outstanding record of successful fundraising to the Vice Chancellor position and I am looking forward to the many contributions he will make to the advancement of UIS as one of the top regional public universities in the Midwest.”

Lorber comes to UIS from Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, where he currently serves as Associate Vice Chancellor for Institutional Advancement and Executive Director of Development for the SIU Foundation. He has been at SIU Carbondale since 2005 and served as the Campaign Director for SIU’s first comprehensive campaign, a successful $106 million effort.

“I look forward to working with Chancellor Koch, Dr. Micek and the University family to attract and secure external support needed to enhance the already outstanding educational experiences and opportunities available at UIS,” said Lorber. “I am excited about becoming involved in Springfield and the surrounding areas to help demonstrate the commitment and benefit UIS provides to the greater community at large.”

Lorber is a native of Muscatine, Iowa, and has also held development positions at Indiana University Northwest, the University of Tennessee, Northern Illinois University, Butler University, the University of Northern Iowa, and Washington University in St. Louis.

“We are very pleased and fortunate to have hired Jeff Lorber and have him join the senior leadership team at the University of Illinois Springfield and the University of Illinois Foundation,” said Micek. “We had many excellent candidates and he emerged as the right choice--at the right time--as we move forward. Jeff has had a significant amount of experience in higher education advancement and fundraising at different types of universities and that experience and background should be beneficial. He and his family will be great additions to UIS, the Foundation and the Springfield community.”

Lorber earned his doctorate in educational administration and policy studies from the University of Tennessee at Knoxville. He has a master's degree in college student personnel from Western Illinois University and a bachelor's degree in communications/public relations from the University of Northern Iowa.

UIS is a premier public university that provides students with a high-quality liberal arts education, exceptional public affairs opportunities, and outstanding professional preparation programs. The campus offers 24 bachelor’s degree programs, 20 master’s programs and 1 doctoral program. UIS has four core strengths: (1) a teaching-focused academic experience; (2) an abundance of opportunities to collaborate; (3) a right-sized supportive community; and (4) a tradition of educating public servants and leaders. UIS has four colleges: business and management; education and human services; liberal arts and sciences; and public affairs and administration.

For more information contact Derek Schnapp, director of public relations at 217/206-6716 or email dschn3@uis.edu.

Wednesday, September 12, 2012

U.S. News & World Report ranks UIS second among public regional universities in the Midwest

U.S. News & World Report’s 2013 Edition of America’s Best Colleges released today ranks the University of Illinois Springfield second among public regional universities in the Midwest, a two spot increase from the 2012 rankings when UIS was fourth.

For the fifth straight year, UIS was ranked as the top regional public university in the state of Illinois.

“This prestigious ranking reflects the strength of our student body as well as high quality, teaching-focused experience provided at the University of Illinois Springfield,” said UIS Chancellor Susan J. Koch. “Our class sizes allow that personal interaction between professors and students in an environment where leadership is lived every day. Our faculty and staff know that ongoing excellence is about keeping the educational experience challenging, fresh and transformative in the best sense of the word for our students.”

The 12-state Midwest region includes Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, and Wisconsin.

The rankings are based on several key measures of quality including assessment by administrators at peer institutions, retention of students, faculty resources, student selectivity, financial resources and alumni giving.

“Great things can happen when students have the opportunity to engage in active learning and to collaborate with accomplished scholars who are as passionate about teaching and mentoring and student success as they are about the subjects they teach,” said UIS Provost and Vice Chancellor of Academic Affairs Lynn Pardie. “That’s what happens here at UIS, and it’s gratifying to see that quality recognized.”

UIS is a premier public university that provides students with a high-quality liberal arts education, exceptional public affairs opportunities, and outstanding professional preparation programs. The campus offers 24 bachelor’s degree programs, 20 master’s programs and 1 doctoral program. UIS has four core strengths: (1) a teaching-focused academic experience; (2) an abundance of opportunities to collaborate; (3) a right-sized supportive community; and (4) a tradition of educating public servants and leaders. UIS has four colleges: business and management; education and human services; liberal arts and sciences; and public affairs and administration.

For more information contact Derek Schnapp, director of public relations at 217/206-6716 or email dschn3@uis.edu.

Tuesday, September 11, 2012

UIS enrollment tops 5,000 students for third year

The University of Illinois Springfield’s fall 2012 enrollment has topped 5,000 students for the third year in a row. The total number of enrolled students at UIS after the first 10 days of classes is 5,048.

“Students choose the Springfield campus of the University of Illinois (and parents encourage them to come to UIS) because of the personalized, high quality experience that we provide every day. It is a right-sized, supportive community,” said UIS Chancellor Susan J. Koch.

There are 3,054 undergraduates at UIS this fall, compared to 3,112 last fall semester. However, the number of freshmen attending UIS increased by nearly 16% this semester. A total of 283 freshmen are enrolled compared to 244 in fall 2011.

“UIS provides an exceptional undergraduate experience with an abundance of opportunities for leadership and I am especially pleased with the increase in the number of freshmen on our campus this year,” said Koch.

Overall, the diversity of the student body is also growing. African American students make up 11.5% percent (578) of the population this year compared to 9.9% (508) last year. There is also a similar increase in the number of Hispanic students this year (239 at 4.7%) compared to last year (187 at 3.6%).

“I am also pleased that we continue to make progress in recruiting a qualified and more diverse student population,” said Koch. “Diversity is important to the overall university experience for all students because it helps prepare them to live and work in an increasingly diverse and global environment.”

There are 1,994 graduate students enrolled at UIS, a 1.5% decrease from the preceding fall semester’s total of 2,025 students.

Growth in online learning continues, with a total of 1,527 students enrolled in online degree or certificate programs, a 7.15% increase over fall 2011. This semester, online students reside in 48 of the 50 states (not North Dakota or Vermont), 75 counties in Illinois, and 9 foreign countries. Online students make up 38% of total credit hours generated at UIS this term, with 61% of all UIS students taking at least one online class.

“Because of our nationally-recognized expertise in high-quality online learning; online enrollments at UIS continue to increase,” said Koch. “Online opportunities provide flexibility and make college more accessible for students who, for whatever reason, may not be able to attend college face-to-face.”

UIS is a premier public university that provides students with a high-quality liberal arts education, exceptional public affairs opportunities, and outstanding professional preparation programs.

UIS has four core strengths: (1) a teaching-focused academic experience; (2) an abundance of opportunities to collaborate; (3) a right-sized supportive community; and (4) a tradition of educating public servants and leaders.

UIS-based Illinois Innocence Project awarded second half-million dollar post-conviction DNA testing grant

The Illinois Innocence Project, based at the University of Illinois Springfield, has been awarded $589,638 from the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) to be used for post-conviction DNA testing. The grant, which will be administered by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority, was announced on September 10 by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin.

The Illinois Innocence Project has previously focused on cases in downstate Illinois, and will use this funding to expand its efforts to cases in the northern part of the state. This grant will allow the Illinois Innocence Project to identify, review, and investigate cases in northern Illinois to determine the strength of DNA evidence and to arrange for DNA testing when it appears crucial to verifying a claim of actual innocence. The grant was made available through the Post-Conviction DNA Testing Assistance Program.

This is the second federal post-conviction DNA testing grant awarded to the Illinois Innocence Project. In November 2010, the project was awarded a $687,448 Department of Justice Bloodsworth Grant to clear downstate Illinois innocence cases where DNA testing might decide the outcome.

For more information, contact Larry Golden at lgold1@uis.edu. More information about the Innocence Project can be found on their website at www.uis.edu/innocenceproject/.

Thursday, September 06, 2012

Students work with UIS-based Innocence Project to overturn conviction of innocent man

As a new academic year begins, students at the University of Illinois Springfield based Illinois Innocence Project have already seen the results of their work with a judge’s ruling that inmate Anthony Murray be granted a new trial. Murray was wrongfully convicted of the June 1998 murder of Seneca Jones in Centralia, Ill. and sentenced to 45 years in the Menard Correctional Center.

Over the past two years, UIS students have helped review the case and assisted Innocence Project lawyer John Hanlon. The students searched for new evidence, interviewed Murray, and attended a June 2012 hearing challenging his conviction.

“We spent a lot of time going through trial transcript and contacting witnesses,” said Rebecca Jo Luke, a senior UIS legal studies major completing an applied study term with the Innocence Project. “I think it was clear to everyone that there had been a miscarriage of justice.”

The student efforts contributed to an August 2012 decision by Marion County Associate Judge Marc Kelly that Murray’s conviction be vacated due to the ineffective representation that Murray received at his initial trial. The judge ruled Murray’s attorney was ineffective because of his decision to call a witness who he knew would unreliably implicate his client in the crime. Kelly found that the lawyer’s decision was so prejudicial to Murray that the outcome at the trial likely would have been different given what he knew about the jury’s deliberations. The judge has ordered a new trial for Murray.

The Illinois Innocence Project is currently reviewing 25 cases with assistance from students at UIS, the University of Illinois College of Law, Southern Illinois University School of Law, and Northern Illinois University College of Law.

Founded in 2000, the Illinois Innocence Project is part of the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership and has a three-part mission: to (1) evaluate and investigate cases for credible claims of an Illinois inmate's actual innocence, and, when appropriate, provide legal representation and/or other assistance toward proving the inmate's actual innocence; to (2) encourage meaningful reforms toward preventing the conviction of innocent persons in the future; and to (3) educate the public and provide important educational and experiential opportunities for students about wrongful convictions.

For more information, contact Larry Golden, Illinois Innocence Project Executive Director at lgold1@uis.edu.

Wednesday, September 05, 2012

Environmental Challenge Grant from the Lumpkin Foundation to support Emiquon efforts

The Lumpkin Family Foundation of Mattoon, Illinois will match gifts that support education at the University of Illinois Springfield’s Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon. The dollar-for-dollar offer, up to a total of $5,000, lasts through November 30, 2012.

"We see in the Field Station a great opportunity for education that takes a learner out of the classroom and into the field, whether that learner is a child looking at microbes from a nearby lake, or an adult touring a wetlands restoration with an environmental scholar,” said Bruce Karmazin, executive director of the Lumpkin Foundation.

The Therkildsen Field Station at Emiquon, under the direction of UIS professor Michael Lemke, takes advantage of the unique living laboratory for aquatic ecology related to The Nature Conservancy's floodplain restoration along the Illinois River. UIS students and community groups use the facility to learn about the environment.

To contribute, visit www.uis.edu/development or call the UIS Office of Development at 217/206-6058.

Educational activities for the community include the following:
  • Monthly Second Sunday Science Series (4S), a program for the public, students, and others featuring Emiquon's scientific, historical, and future significance. Gifts would help bring regional and national experts on the environment to the series.
  • Field trips for K-12 students, local clubs, and organizations, at which participants use microscopes, collect samples, create Winogradsky column to take home, complete a camera scavenger hunt, and much more. Gifts would help provide learning modules for new activities. 
  • Environmental academies, at which high school students learn about careers in the environment and contribute as volunteers to restoration activities. Gifts would help provide new equipment and supplies. 
For more information, contact Sarah Jennings, Interim Associate Chancellor for Development and Interim Sr. VP University of Illinois Foundation at 217/206-6058 or sjenn02s@uis.edu.

Thirty nine new faculty members join UIS for fall 2012

Thirty nine new faculty members have joined the University of Illinois Springfield for the 2012 Fall Semester. Thirteen will teach in programs within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences; seven will teach in the College of Public Affairs and Administration; five in the College of Education and Human Services; six in the College of Business and Management; four will teach in the library, and four in the Capital Scholars Honors Program.

Kevin Beeson, visiting clinical instructor of Experiential and Service Learning in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, holds a M.A in History from the University of Illinois Springfield. Beeson’s research and professional interests include history, political science, and continuing education. He also appreciates civil war & local history, rock collecting, and reading.

Travis Bland, assistant professor of Public Administration in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a Ph.D. in Public Administration and Public Affairs from Virginia Tech. Bland’s research and professional interests include social welfare, normative and ethical foundations of our constitutional democratic republic, network approach to governance, and political philosophy. He also enjoys baseball, golf, and teaching/ leading small groups at church, and working with youth groups.

Robert Blankenberger, assistant professor of Public Administration in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a Ph.D. in Policy Analysis and Administration from Saint Louis University. His research and professional interest include higher education policy and federalism as well as history and athletics.

Dorine Brand, assistant professor of Public Health in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a Ph.D. in Community Health from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Brand’s research and professional interests include health disparities and the role of faith-based organizations in facilitating health programming within the African American community. She is also interested in reading, relaxing, and spending time with family and friends.

Mark Buxton, assistant professor of Accountancy in the College of Business and Management, holds a Ph.D. in Business Administration/ Accounting from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. His research and professional interests include behavioral/ decision-making in business situations, spending time with family and friends, sports, and traveling.

Jesús Canelón, assistant professor of Management Information Systems in the College of Business Administration and Management, holds a Ph.D. in Information Systems and Technology from Claremount Graduate University. Canelón’s research and professional interests include online learning, face, facework, online conflicts, and intercultural communication. He enjoys baseball, tennis, running, and cycling.

Sarah Collins, clinical instructor and writing specialist in the Center for Teaching and Learning, earned her M.A from the University of Illinois Springfield in English. Collins’ research and professional interests includes English studies, composition, tutoring, graphic novel, theatre, film, Shakespeare, and 21st century fiction. She also loves the arts, especially theatre, film, and photography. She enjoys reading and writing for pleasure.

Sarah Dennis, visiting assistant professor of English in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, earned her Ph.D. in English from the University of Illinois at Urbana Champaign. Her research and professional interests include material culture studies, early American visual arts and literature. She also enjoys gardening, training for her first race, and spending time with friends and family.

Myrto Drizou, instructor of English in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, holds a Ph.D. in Comparative Literature from State University of New York at Buffalo. Drizou research and professional interests include 19th and 20th century American literature, continental theory, gender studies, rhetoric and composition. She also loves to travel, bike, and cook for friends.

Betsy Goulet, visiting lecturer of Public Administration in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a M.A in Child, Family, and Community Services from the University of Illinois Springfield. Her research and professional interests include the public sector/nonprofit collaboration for social change and child abuse policy development. She also enjoys writing music, musical theater, and reading.

Dorothy Hemmo, clinical assistant professor of Library Instructional Services, holds a M.S. in Information Resources and Library Science from the University of Arizona. Her research and professional interests include online learning, information literacy, and emerging technologies. She also enjoys gardening, music, and the opera.

Michael Hogan, distinguished professor of History in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, earned his Ph.D. in History from the University of Iowa. His research and professional interests include U.S political history, diplomatic history, and national security studies.

Carol Jessup, visiting associate professor of Accountancy in the College of Business and Management, received her Ph.D. in Business Aministration/ Management and Public Policy Analysis from Saint Louis University. Jessup’s research and professional interests include governmental and nonprofit accounting (state and local government financial reporting issues), auditing and fraud topics, and online teaching, including technology tools. She enjoys movies, pets, collecting sheet music, traveling, and aquacise.

John Laubersheimer, clinical assistant professor of Library Instructional Services, holds a M.S. in Library and information Science from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. His research and professional interests include librarianship, instruction, information seeking behaviors, and general information science. He also enjoys painting, history, pop culture, and gaming.

Geoffrey Lea, visiting associate professor of Accountancy in the College of Business and Management, earned a Ph.D. in Economics from George Mason University. His research and professional interests include Austrian economics, political economy, public choice, property right, and the history of economic thought. He also enjoys coaching rugby, mixology, and gastronomy.

Karen Lee, visiting clinical instructor of Human Development Counseling in the College of Education and Human Services, holds a M.A in Individual Option Program/ Non-Traditional Approaches to Medical Education from the University of Illinois Springfield. Her research and professional interests include art therapy, trauma, schizophrenia, assertive community treatment, and neurobiology of psychotherapy. She also enjoys painting, sailing, and rescuing animals.

Ronald Loui, assistant professor of Computer Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, holds a M.S in Computer Science and Philosophy/Cognitive Science from the University of Rochester. Loui’s research and professional interests include cyberwarfare, egovernment, data analytics, artificial intelligence and legal reasoning, political and behavioral economics, and personality-based engineering education.

Kathy Massey, visiting assistant professor of Educational Leadership in the College of Education and Human Services, holds an Ed.D in Educational Leadership from Illinois State University. Massey’s research and professional interest include educational technology, student achievement, online learning, and the administrative role. She also enjoys reading, gardening, traveling, and playing golf.

Peggy Mayfield, visiting instructor of Human Services in the College of Education and Human Services, earned a M.A in Human Development Counseling from the University of Illinois Springfield. Mayfield’s research and professional interests include resilience, capacity building, compassion fatigue, traumatic stress, and cultural competence. She also enjoys photography, painting, family, and friends.

Stephen Mcminn, clinical assistant and director of collections and scholarly communications in Library Instructional Services, holds a M.S. in Library Science from Indiana University. His research and professional interests includes analyzing library collections and use of bibliographic management applications emphasizing how information is used to further research and scholarship. He also enjoys family activities, movies, and sports.

Michele Miller, assistant professor of Psychology in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, holds a Ph.D. in Human Development from the University of Wisconsin at Madison. Her research and professional interests include individual difference in temperament, social-emotional development, risk for psychopathology, and readiness for preschool. Miller also enjoys spending time with family, live music or comedy, watching sports, running, and reading.

Nicole Overcash, instructor for the Capital Scholars Honors Program, holds a M.A. in English from the University of Illinois Springfield. Her research and professional interests include contemporary literature, postmodern theory, Asian studies, and interdisciplinarity. She also enjoys antiquing/thrifting, sewing, and traveling.

Kenneth Owen, assistant professor of History in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, holds a Ph.D. in Modern History from the University of Oxford. Owen’s research and professional interests include political ideology in Colonial and Revolutionary America.

Vicki Perkins, instructor for the Capital Honors Scholars Program, holds a M.A. in English from New York University.

 




Jaclyn Peterson, instructor for the Capital Honors Scholars Program, holds a M.S. in Interdisciplinary Studies from Texas State University. Her research and professional interests includes increasing accessibility of individuals on the autism spectrum to higher education and meaningful career paths. She also enjoys traveling, running, writing, speaking French, and spending time with family and friends.

Dathan Powell, assistant professor of Theatre in the College of Liberal Arts, earned his M.A. in Fine Arts and Scenic Design from Indiana University. His research and professional interests include producing live performance events, creating tools to help theatre artists, and using theatre as a collaboration tool that can be applied across scholarly disciplines. Powell also enjoys family, woodworking, furniture design, architectural history, music, and pop culture.

Hua Qin, assistant professor of Environmental Studies in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a Ph.D. in Human Dimensions of Natural Resources and Ecology from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. Qin’s research and professional interests include environmental and resource sociology, population and the environment (climate change), community and natural resource management, and research methods and statistics. He also enjoys movies, sports, and spending time with his family.

Maria Elena Rivera-Beckstrom, visiting assistant professor of Legal Studies in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a Ph.D. in Sociology from the New School for Social Research in New York. Beckstrom’s research and professional interests include Philippine constitutional politics and American colonialism, comparative constitution-making and comparative-historical sociology. She also enjoys food and cooking, movies, especially foreign films, and taking care of her shamrock and basil plants.

Jeffrey Robinson, instructor of Art in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, earned his M.A. in Fine Arts and Painting from Illinois State University. Robinson’s research and professional interest include the investigation of drawing, painting and mixed –media processes; and the study of theory pertaining to design, color and art. He also enjoys reading, music, watching football, playing video games, and relaxing with family and friends.

Sarah Sagmoen, clinical assistant and director of learning commons and user services in Library Instructional Services, holds a M.S. in Library and Information Sciences from Dominican University. Her research and professional interests include exploring ways in which academic libraries can collaborate with student activities to bridge the curricular and co-curricular environments. Her personal interests include reading, cooking, tech gadgets, and social media.

Bruce Sommer, visiting instructor of Management in the College of Business and Management, holds a M.B.A in Business Administration from the University of New Hampshire. His research and professional interests include emerging business start-ups and early-stage venture investing.

Yona Stamatis, assistant professor of Music in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, holds a Ph.D. in Ethnomusicology from the University of Michigan. Stamatis’ research and professional interests involve Rebetika, traditional Greek music, music and social justice, musical nationalism, music and European integration, and music and resistance. She also enjoys playing the violin and bouzouki, reading modern Greek literature, cooking, and fishing.

Justin Stearns, assistant professor of Accountancy in the College of Business and Management, earned his Ph.D. in Accounting from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. Stearns research and professional interest involves decision making in managerial/cost accounting, particularly relating to budgeting and planning. He also enjoys spending time with family, baseball, current events, technology, and science fiction books.

Grace Sweatt, visiting instructor of Social Works in the College of Education and Human Services, earned a M.S.W in Social Work-Health and Mental Health from Southern Illinois University at Edwardsville. Her research and professional interest include best practices for long-term care ombudsmen, intersection of personal and professional values, creative solutions to new economic realities, and community-building. In addition, Sweatt appreciates reading, writing, 19th century American history, bicycling, traveling, and is designing a small “green” home for retirement.

Lucas Vespa, assistant professor of Computer Science in the College of Liberal Arts and Science, holds a Ph.D. in Electrical and Computer Engineering from Southern Illinois University at Carbondale. Vespa’s research and professional interest includes network security analysis, sensor networks, and applications for SIMD processing. He also indulges in classical guitar and rock climbing.

Donna Weinstein, assistant professor of Human Services in the College of Education and Human Services, holds a Ph.D in Educational Counseling from Oakland University. Her research and professional interests includes perception – we may speak the same language, but we rarely mean the same thing – as well as fostering healthy parent/teen relationships. She also enjoys spending time with family and friends, traveling, cooking, reading scrapbooking, and learning new things.

Brett Werner, assistant professor of Environmental Studies in the College of Public Affairs and Administration, holds a Ph.D. in Rhetoric and Scientific and Technical Communication from the University of Minnesota. Werner’s research and professional interest include sustainability, environmental humanities/ human dimensions (ethics, history, literature, policy, and rhetoric), ecology (wetlands, modeling, riparian), agriculture and food. He also enjoys paddling, hiking, gardening, photography, and writing.

Clifford White, instructor in the Capital Honors Scholars Program, holds a M.A. in Communication from the University of Illinois Springfield. He has many research and professional interests, but his highest priority is focusing on how media contextualizes reality for the audience that engages it. He describes himself as an “unabashed cinefile” who enjoys a diverse swath of films and genres. He also appreciates literature, music, philosophy, tennis, and politics.