UIS Chancellor's Picnic brings people together

University of Illinois Springfield Chancellor Susan J. Koch hosted her annual Welcome Week picnic on the quad on August 28, 2012.

“It’s just a great opportunity for everybody on campus employees, faculty, staff, and of course, most importantly students to get together and get to know each other all over again and look forward to the year,” said Koch.

The picnic gives the campus community a chance to celebrate the start of a new academic year, while enjoying free food, friendship, and great entertainment.

Senior Communication major Yvonne Barbosa had never been to the annual event, but now realizes she’s been missing out. She was one of many students who got to spend time speaking with Chancellor Koch.

“I like it because she’s actually walking around somewhere and personalizing and getting herself familiar with the students,” said Barbosa.

Chancellor Koch was joined by University of Illinois President Robert Easter at the event. He greeted the crowd, telling them how such an event would not be possible at a larger university.

“As I talk with students, faculty, and staff, I sense a real passion for this institution for wanting to make it absolutely the best that it can be,” said Easter. “It’s already recognized as the best public regional university in the state of Illinois. The next stop is the best throughout the Midwest and that’s doable.”

Overall, more than 800 people attended the annual picnic.