UIS celebrates 20 years as part of the University of Illinois at the Chancellor's Picnic

The annual Chancellor’s Picnic not only kicked off a new academic year, but also celebrated UIS’ 20th anniversary as part of the University of Illinois.

Before food was served, a ceremonial cake cutting was held and Chancellor Susan Koch addressed the audience, wishing them a happy and successful academic year.

“This is going to be a great year,” Koch told the audience. “There are a lot of exciting things going on. For those of you who are new, I really hope you’ll immerse yourself in all of the opportunities here.”



For Kowsalya Viswanathan, an international graduate student from India, it was her first time attending the picnic. She came for the food and to meet new friends.

“I think this is a very good opportunity to meet a lot of people, even our professors,” she said. “So, I can chat with my professors, new friends, other student organizations, everyone.”

Xavier Todd was one of the first students in line. He arrive a half-an-hour early, but wasn’t expecting the turnout of almost 900 students, faculty and staff.

“I didn’t expect so many people to come out,” said Todd. “I didn’t know how big it was going to get, but it turned out very well.”

The picnic also gives students a chance to meet Chancellor Koch.

“I’ve been walking around meeting lots and lots of new students,” said Koch. “The energy that you feel in this place, at this moment is just fantastic. People are really excited to be here.”