tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9314807119881217312024-03-14T02:10:42.534-07:00Chancellor's BlogI am the Chancellor and Vice President of the University of Illinois Springfield. I served in senior leadership roles at two public regional universities prior to my arrival at UIS.UIS Web Serviceshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07738526312024102919noreply@blogger.comBlogger173125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-56516288605504123002015-09-11T13:22:00.005-07:002015-09-11T13:22:50.606-07:00Follow me on Twitter!Thank you for visiting my blog. Starting Fall Semester 2015, I will no longer be posting on this website. Please follow me on Twitter <a href="http://www.twitter.com/ChancellorKoch/">@ChancellorKoch</a>.<br />
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Thanks for visiting!
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-88619334031514518082015-04-17T08:14:00.004-07:002015-04-17T08:14:50.782-07:00UIS Theatre program does it again!<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hv5_YZoQafs/VTEjTXsSizI/AAAAAAAAAqY/YmeEcfT8d28/s1600/streetcar%2B(1).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hv5_YZoQafs/VTEjTXsSizI/AAAAAAAAAqY/YmeEcfT8d28/s1600/streetcar%2B(1).jpg" height="200" width="133" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">My husband and I had the
pleasure of attending the <a href="http://www.uis.edu/theatre/productions/">UIS Theatre program’s production of Tennessee William's “A Streetcar Named Desire”</a> last night and it was outstanding!
As is always the case in the UIS Theatre program, the choice of plays – another
Pulitzer Prize winning work - set the stage for both the actors and the
audience to experience something very, very special. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The set, musical
background and technical aspects of the production were outstanding and I’m
sure many students had a great experience working and learning under the
direction of Professor Dathan Powell, the Technical Director and Set Designer. Eric Thibodeaux-Thompson, Associate Professor of Theatre was Director of
the production and he created a really wonderful performance.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">We were
drawn in and held from the first scene right through to the last moment. Missy Thibodeaux-Thompson, also Associate Professor of Theatre, was
in the starring role and her portrayal of Blanche DuBois was just amazing. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was a privilege to be in the audience and watch her bring Blanche to
life in such a deeply believable, compelling and sympathetic way. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">I found
myself imagining the poor woman waiting on dying relatives one after another as
the old plantation property shrinks and crumbles around her and later feeling so
desperate for any semblance of her longed-for former respectable life.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Each of our student actors – Stella, Eunice and others - also did a great
job – a strong indication that we already have in place the foundations of
talent needed for the new Theatre major that the department has proposed. Thank
you UIS Theatre program for providing me and all the members o</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">f the audience
with a truly exceptional evening of theatre. You all deserve a standing
ovation! </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">If
you haven’t seen the <a href="http://www.uis.edu/theatre/productions/">UIS Theatre production of “A Streetcar Named Desire,</a>” you
can still catch a performance tonight or Saturday night in the Studio Theatre
on the UIS campus.</span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-34504716229921507612015-04-01T07:15:00.000-07:002015-04-01T08:24:34.354-07:00Painting the Colonnade blue?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vgzawYZ2hV8/VRqrT9RSGmI/AAAAAAAAAp0/uvxqi2whGnI/s1600/Chancellor%2BPaints.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-vgzawYZ2hV8/VRqrT9RSGmI/AAAAAAAAAp0/uvxqi2whGnI/s1600/Chancellor%2BPaints.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;">In
an effort to boost school spirit, I’ve made the decision to make a color change
to one of our landmarks on campus. Today with the help of others, I pitched in
to help paint the colonnade blue! I hope you enjoy the new look as much as I do.<u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Then
again, what day is today? April 1st?</span><span style="font-family: Times New Roman, serif;"><u5:p></u5:p></span></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-59628529311779708372015-03-24T09:18:00.004-07:002015-03-24T09:18:36.607-07:00Cheese fries and conversation!<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wPbRRPyKSZ8/VRGCT0s3-wI/AAAAAAAAApc/QQCWjqzxTuU/s1600/chancellorcheesefries.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wPbRRPyKSZ8/VRGCT0s3-wI/AAAAAAAAApc/QQCWjqzxTuU/s1600/chancellorcheesefries.jpg" height="142" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You might wonder what french
fries drizzled with cheese have to do with a meaningful conversation.
Surprisingly - a great deal. Each semester, the UIS Student Government
Association and I partner to host a late-night forum for
students – an opportunity for students to engage in
conversation with the Chancellor on any topics they choose. Last night was the
eighth such event in this series of “ch” inspired food themes. We’ve had
Chocolate with the Chancellor, Chili with the Chancellor, Cheesecake with the
Chancellor, Chicken with the Chancellor to name a few. Last night it
was Cheese Fries with the Chancellor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We had a great turn-out
and I’m always delighted with student participation in this event. The
topics vary each time, but we all have at least one conviction in common: we
want to make UIS a better place to learn, explore, and grow. I applaud UIS
students for taking time out of their busy schedules and sharing their thoughts
and hopes for our campus community.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">…and by the way the
cheese fries (along with some UIS M & M’s) weren’t bad either! </span><span style="font-family: Bookman Old Style, serif;"><u1:p></u1:p></span></span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-208241618583446922015-03-12T12:07:00.001-07:002015-03-12T12:07:28.161-07:00Star Power - Alumni in Government Breakfast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O5AfjqL6Zzs/VQCuZXImhBI/AAAAAAAAApM/FbbxK9iUna0/s1600/4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-O5AfjqL6Zzs/VQCuZXImhBI/AAAAAAAAApM/FbbxK9iUna0/s1600/4.jpg" height="86" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">It
was an early Wednesday morning for me, but I have to say that I look forward to this event
every year. We had our annual <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/illinoisspringfield/sets/72157650886924260/">alumni in government breakfast</a> and I’m happy to report that UIS spirit is alive and well and it was on full
display at this gathering.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Each
conversation I had with an alum seemed to have a recurring theme -- I
heard over and over again how their UIS degree helped prepare them for the job
they are doing and has propelled their career. As Chancellor, nothing
could make me prouder than to hear how valued their UIS degree is to them.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I
look forward to seeing these bright and dedicated alumni around the capital
city in the coming months. </span><span style="font-family: Bookman Old Style, serif; font-size: 16pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-12709494183057822282015-01-30T09:29:00.002-08:002015-01-30T09:29:29.645-08:00Everyone knows Danny Lau!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AHHmk77NwE/VMqVsWhKcpI/AAAAAAAAAok/SLQY1Kx_cds/s1600/Danny%2BLau%2BEOY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AHHmk77NwE/VMqVsWhKcpI/AAAAAAAAAok/SLQY1Kx_cds/s1600/Danny%2BLau%2BEOY.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AHHmk77NwE/VMqVsWhKcpI/AAAAAAAAAok/SLQY1Kx_cds/s1600/Danny%2BLau%2BEOY.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Each January we have a very special celebration on campus to recognize
UIS employees who have been named Employee of the Month throughout the previous
year and to announce the UIS Employee of the year. This celebration is
one of my favorite campus events because it provides an opportunity to
demonstrate appreciation for the many faculty and staff who provide such a
supportive environment for students every day.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The 2014 Employee of the Year is
Danny Lau - who has been employed in the food service emporium for the past 10
years (after cooking in a Chinese restaurant in Hong Kong for decades). Danny
is a legend on our campus. In addition to serving breakfast, lunch and dinner,
he is known for dispensing friendly smiles and words of wisdom to students on a
daily basis. His fried rice is so revered that staff, faculty and students
often start lining up at 10:30 in the morning whenever it is on the lunch
menu. Congratulations, Danny, on being named UIS 2014 Employee of the
Year! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">The </span><a href="http://eom.uis.edu/2015/01/danny-lau-named-2014-uis-employee-of.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">short video of the recognition ceremony</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> is a good capture of Danny (and others) and if
you haven’t seen the </span><a href="http://spotlight.uis.edu/2011/03/uis-chef-serves-up-asian-food-with_30.html" style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">feature video on Danny from a few years ago, it is a good watch too</a><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">!</span></div>
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<!-- Blogger automated replacement: "https://images-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com/gadgets/proxy?url=http%3A%2F%2F4.bp.blogspot.com%2F-2AHHmk77NwE%2FVMqVsWhKcpI%2FAAAAAAAAAok%2FSLQY1Kx_cds%2Fs1600%2FDanny%252BLau%252BEOY.jpg&container=blogger&gadget=a&rewriteMime=image%2F*" with "https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2AHHmk77NwE/VMqVsWhKcpI/AAAAAAAAAok/SLQY1Kx_cds/s1600/Danny%2BLau%2BEOY.jpg" -->Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-53110892254122633932015-01-14T15:02:00.001-08:002015-01-14T15:02:13.577-08:00Another historical moment at UIS<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6R2-hz0r7IE/VLb1L67F1AI/AAAAAAAAAoU/fULKG5zd0iM/s1600/23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6R2-hz0r7IE/VLb1L67F1AI/AAAAAAAAAoU/fULKG5zd0iM/s1600/23.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The Springfield campus of the University of Illinois was
once again center stage for one of the biggest events that takes place in our
great state, the <a href="http://news.uis.edu/2015/01/uis-hosts-illinois-house-inauguration.html">inauguration of the Illinois House of Representatives</a>. This is the 5<sup>th</sup> time, our campus and Sangamon Auditorium has hosted
the inauguration. This is not only a great opportunity to showcase the
university to a large group of constituents, but it is also a time to <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/illinoisspringfield/sets/72157647972485193/">greet many legislators and visitors</a>. The day definitely had a UIS flavor
as many of our staff volunteered and many alums participated in the day’s
celebration.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-2359614515023056032014-12-16T13:08:00.003-08:002014-12-16T13:10:10.504-08:00UIS students exemplify the spirit of the season<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1Rw49bA5-w/VJCc86sHC9I/AAAAAAAAAn4/fYToYxf9zaE/s1600/Polly%2BRoesch%2B1.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a1Rw49bA5-w/VJCc86sHC9I/AAAAAAAAAn4/fYToYxf9zaE/s1600/Polly%2BRoesch%2B1.jpeg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As the holiday break approaches, UIS students are busy preparing
and taking finals and doing all the usual things that signal the last-minute
push before the break. In the midst of all those commitments, <a href="http://www.uis.edu/music/">UIS Music</a> students made a special effort this last week to bring the spirit of the season
to a very special person. </span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFm85ezoZOA/VJCdB8e197I/AAAAAAAAAoA/KIK9L8Nw_D4/s1600/polly%2Broesch%2B2.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-GFm85ezoZOA/VJCdB8e197I/AAAAAAAAAoA/KIK9L8Nw_D4/s1600/polly%2Broesch%2B2.jpeg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Professor Sharon Graf and students visited St.
Joseph's Home in Springfield to entertain residents and to pay a special visit
to our friend, <a href="http://www.uis.edu/development/action/roesch/">Polly Roesch</a>. Polly is a distinguished citizen of Springfield
and a longtime supporter of our UIS Music program. In fact, she donated funds
two years ago to renovate our music rehearsal room, which we named after her.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Though she now is 104 years old, she greatly enjoyed our visit.
The high point was when Christina, a Chinese student, showed Polly her
instrument and then played a song for her. I am so grateful for the
generosity of these talented UIS students.</span><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-18014647573513355362014-12-09T11:22:00.001-08:002014-12-09T12:02:11.432-08:00UIS students demonstrate “Leadership lived."<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KnmbWcFmPII/VIdVOn-Hh6I/AAAAAAAAAno/5ukuB8AjEpw/s1600/protest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KnmbWcFmPII/VIdVOn-Hh6I/AAAAAAAAAno/5ukuB8AjEpw/s1600/protest.jpg" height="116" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I don’t know what it
feels like to be an African American in the United States today. I also
don’t know what it feels like to be a police officer. But I am an
American who believes deeply in the importance of citizenship and leadership. I’m seeing both today at UIS, as the attached photograph demonstrates.
If we’re going to make things better in our country in the wake of the
traumatic recent events in Ferguson, Missouri and New York City, we will
need citizens and leaders like these UIS students – who are demonstrating their
concerns peacefully and effectively on the UIS campus today. My
congratulations to Robyn Crutchfield, Lisa Gary, Tieshah Hawkins and
other members of the UIS Black Student Union who organized the demonstration
today. That’s what I call “Leadership lived.”</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-82142031867003805472014-12-08T10:11:00.000-08:002014-12-09T12:02:40.986-08:00Springfield First Citizens Shine Bright<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FR5RiIXELLA/VIXpVwgMe0I/AAAAAAAAAnI/GZjdv2zAZ78/s1600/IMG_3430.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FR5RiIXELLA/VIXpVwgMe0I/AAAAAAAAAnI/GZjdv2zAZ78/s1600/IMG_3430.JPG" height="149" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This past Saturday we celebrated Springfield Day
during our men’s basketball game at TRAC. As part of the day’s
activities, I hosted a meeting of all the First Citizens of Springfield, each
of whom has been so named because of their exceptional contributions to our
community. I enjoyed briefing this distinguished group about how the campus is
growing in size, visibility and reputation and we had a lively dialogue about
ways that the community and the university can collaborate to enhance both the
university and the Central Illinois region. These people are shining examples
of how each of us can make a difference in our world - Leadership lived!</span><span style="font-size: 14pt;"><u1:p></u1:p></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-46305418012617457642014-11-26T07:26:00.004-08:002014-11-26T07:26:37.293-08:00Happy Thanksgiving to all!<div class="MsoPlainText">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMEza6oZkJU/VHXw_-3MFMI/AAAAAAAAAm4/eL9zRNkE8DI/s1600/Handshake.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sMEza6oZkJU/VHXw_-3MFMI/AAAAAAAAAm4/eL9zRNkE8DI/s1600/Handshake.jpg" height="146" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">As I look ahead to our Thanksgiving celebration this
week, I am mindful of all we have to be thankful for here at UIS. I am personally thankful for the exceptional
faculty and staff who make this university such a wonderful place to learn,
work and grow. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I'm equally thankful for our hard working and talented students,
especially the many who provide such thoughtful leadership for our many student
organizations. And at this particular moment in our history, I'm thankful for
the soon-to-be new President of the University of Illinois, Dr, Tim Killeen.
Dr. Killeen was introduced to our campus just a few days ago and I'm looking
forward to our work together.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happy Thanksgiving to all!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-10923906931257350852014-11-18T13:04:00.001-08:002014-11-18T13:04:22.317-08:00Congratulations to one of our best!<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2zKeH_w440/VGu0PBT6UyI/AAAAAAAAAmo/-oJ9ZNS9CGM/s1600/McNeil%2BInvestiture.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-T2zKeH_w440/VGu0PBT6UyI/AAAAAAAAAmo/-oJ9ZNS9CGM/s1600/McNeil%2BInvestiture.jpg" height="158" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I was delighted to
participate in the <a href="http://news.uis.edu/2014/11/dean-ronald-mcneil-named-pnc.html">investiture ceremony of UIS Business Dean RonMcNeil as the PNC Distinguished Professor </a>in Banking and Finance. In the
world of higher education, being appointed to a distinguished professorship is
a high honor indeed and this one was most certainly well-deserved.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dr. McNeil has had a
long and successful career that includes serving as the Dean of the UIS College
of Business and Management since 2002. I have especially appreciated Dr.
McNeil’s understanding of the importance of internationalization on the UIS
campus. He has been a champion for the recruitment of international
students as well as for study abroad opportunities for American students. He has also led the College to a successful outcome of its AACSB
reaccreditation process as well as substantially increased enrollment in the
College. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Thanks to the support of PNC bank, this professorship will
enable Dr. McNeil to expand his efforts for the benefit of UIS even further. It
was a pleasure to see so many members of Ron’s family at the ceremony to celebrate with him. Congratulations, Dean McNeil!</span><span style="font-family: Calibri, sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-2292070935008792632014-11-11T07:55:00.001-08:002014-11-11T07:55:47.411-08:00Prairie Stars Shine Bright<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TuQzgTaiamg/VGIxaj1-_wI/AAAAAAAAAmY/-PA83FsPhVo/s1600/Alumni%2BAward%2BRecipients.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TuQzgTaiamg/VGIxaj1-_wI/AAAAAAAAAmY/-PA83FsPhVo/s200/Alumni%2BAward%2BRecipients.jpg" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I enjoy attending a
great many events as Chancellor of UIS, but I have to say that alumni events
hold a special place in my heart. Friday night’s annual <a href="http://spotlight.uis.edu/2014/11/alumni-association-to-honor-four-for.html">UIS Alumni Gala </a>gave several hundred of our alums and friends an opportunity to connect
and in some cases reconnect with fellow alumni and friends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I witnessed more
than one of those reconnecting moments on Friday night at the Abraham Lincoln
President Museum – a great venue
for a party. It is truly heartwarming to see our seasoned alumni
take time to connect with younger alums and offer words of encouragement. At
the gala, we honored four remarkable members of the UIS family for
their professional achievements and service; <a href="http://spotlight.uis.edu/2014/11/alumni-association-to-honor-four-for.html">Ralph Blackman, June Agamah and Julie and William Kellner. </a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Each of
these award winners acknowledged the important role that their college
experience had played in their life and their stories were
shining examples of how<span style="color: #ff2600;"> </span>every person
can make a difference in his or her corner of the world. These individuals
are just four of the many reasons that the Prairie Stars shine so brightly
around the world. Congratulations 2014 alumni award winners!</span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-19556681535314008252014-11-10T07:38:00.003-08:002014-11-10T07:38:30.361-08:00An accomplishment Lincoln would be proud of<div class="MsoNormal">
<u1:p></u1:p><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-frJSsuD7evU/VFzzAKrlCfI/AAAAAAAAAmI/aKYU67lDOqc/s1600/Lincoln%2BLaureate%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-frJSsuD7evU/VFzzAKrlCfI/AAAAAAAAAmI/aKYU67lDOqc/s1600/Lincoln%2BLaureate%2B1.jpg" height="160" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black;">We are proud of our students here at UIS
and often, we have the privilege to recognize individual students for their
outstanding accomplishments both on and off campus. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black;">I had that that
opportunity a few days ago when UIS alum Julie Kellner, who is Executive
Director of the Lincoln Academy of Illinois, and I spent a little
time with UIS student Clarissa<b> </b>Fisher, who is being honored this year
as the <a href="http://spotlight.uis.edu/2014/11/clarissa-fisher-honored-with-student.html">UIS 2014 Lincoln Academy Student Laureate.</a> </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="color: black;">This prestigious
honor is bestowed every year by the Lincoln Academy of Illinois on one
exceptional student from each university in the state to recognize</span> their
outstanding performance. Each student honored is presented with the
Lincoln medal, a certificate and a $1,000 award. Besides being a UIS student,
Clarissa is also employed at Bunn-O-Matic Corporation in Springfield, one of
the city’s leading employers. She is also a generous volunteer
who has given her time and talent to<span style="color: black;"> Habitat
for Humanity, Big Brothers Big Sisters, and other organizations. Clarissa
also has done mission work in Haiti and even spent a year in China teaching
English and Art to young children. </span>She is a great example of the
UIS promise of Leadership Lived … and a reminder to us all to stretch
ourselves and be the best we can be. Congratulations, Clarissa Fisher on
being named the 2014 UIS Lincoln Student Laureate! </span></div>
</div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">(Pictured is myself, Clarissa, and Julie Kellner, Executive Director of The Lincoln Academy of Illinois)</span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-25867313935486180222014-11-04T11:53:00.005-08:002014-11-04T12:43:52.898-08:00Cherries with the Chancellor<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dOE1BpQt73o/VFkumjbAB7I/AAAAAAAAAl4/h5dl1vcsWKQ/s1600/Cherries%2Bwith%2Bthe%2BChancellor.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dOE1BpQt73o/VFkumjbAB7I/AAAAAAAAAl4/h5dl1vcsWKQ/s1600/Cherries%2Bwith%2Bthe%2BChancellor.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Last night, along with the <a href="http://www.uis.edu/sga/">Student Government Association</a> I hosted my fall “Chat with the Chancellor” event for our student
body. This is the fourth year for this popular tradition that provides
students with an opportunity for some quality time with the Chancellor at the
same time it gives me an opportunity to learn directly from UIS students about
their experience here on campus. We’ve had "Chocolate
with the Chancellor”, chili, chimichangas, cheesecake, chicken,
cheeseburgers and now cherries! As you can see, we had some delectable
cherry themed treats to enjoy during our discussion of the new student union
and other topics of interest to students. We have an amazing, engaged
student body and I’m always delighted when students take time out of their busy
schedules to discuss important issues that affect our campus. I’m so
impressed with the way UIS students articulate their concerns and are sincerely
trying to make their experience and those of the students who follow them the
best that it can be. </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12.0pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">P.S. The cherry jello shots with whipped cream were awesome!</span></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-46017819038650211732014-10-13T13:54:00.000-07:002014-10-13T13:54:01.499-07:00Action-packed Homecoming Weekend at UIS<div class="MsoNormal">
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nVQKew5J3lo/VDw7kQkof4I/AAAAAAAAAlo/q2cjXzmGlb8/s1600/Chancellor%2Bparade.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nVQKew5J3lo/VDw7kQkof4I/AAAAAAAAAlo/q2cjXzmGlb8/s1600/Chancellor%2Bparade.jpg" height="138" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">It was a full week and weekend of homecoming activities
and, come Sunday evening when I finally had a chance to really reflect, I
couldn’t help but smile. I lost count of all the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/illinoisspringfield/sets/">activities and events</a>
that took place; but let’s just say it was a tremendous week on the UIS
campus. From the <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/illinoisspringfield/sets/72157648214423240/">parade</a>, to the BBQ, to the athletic events (including a big
upset Friday Night by the UIS Men’s Soccer Team!), to the fireworks, to the
Athletics Hall of Fame Induction ceremony… it was a wonderful showcase of UIS
engagement, involvement and achievement.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">A special highlight for me was
the induction of the <a href="http://uisprairiestars.com/news/2014/5/15/GEN_0515140907.aspx?path=general">inaugural class of the new UIS Athletics Hall of Fame</a>. The class included the legendary Aydin Gonulsen, founding Athletic
Director and men’s soccer coach at Sangamon State University (now UIS) who led
the men’s soccer teams to three national championships!! It also included
soccer standout Elias Shehadi, tennis star Carla Jimenez Mills, friend of
the Prairie Stars Harold Christofilakos and the entire 1986 men’s soccer
national championship team. All in all, it was a great week to show off
Prairie Star pride and meet up with students, alums, and community
members. All I can think is “Wow!, that was fun!”</span></div>
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Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-15837214139983097682014-09-30T17:50:00.000-07:002014-09-30T17:50:06.091-07:00Thrill and delight at the magic of the Student Union!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AM0-aQbIr_M/VCtPcrWGSkI/AAAAAAAAAlI/osoqg_m7A1M/s1600/Carnival.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AM0-aQbIr_M/VCtPcrWGSkI/AAAAAAAAAlI/osoqg_m7A1M/s1600/Carnival.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The <a href="http://www.uis.edu/studentunion/">UIS Student Union</a> Campaign Kickoff was this afternoon on the campus quad and what an event it was!! We had over 800 people from the campus and community join us for a carnival celebration with lots of games, free food (including my favorite health food – cotton candy), entertainment and various other forms of merriment. There was a rumor going around that the Chancellor was going to strap into the gyroscope; but I can assure you it was not true!! The high point of the event for me was announcing to the crowd that we have already received $2.4 million in gifts from lead donors for this critically important project for the UIS campus. Twenty-four months from now, we’ll have an even bigger party to cut the ribbon on the new building!! Can’t wait for that day!</span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;"><a href="http://www.uis.edu/studentunion/student-union-video/">View the Student Union Campaign video</a> </span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-940053547635657242014-09-24T15:26:00.003-07:002014-09-24T15:26:33.162-07:00A New Option for Nursing Education at UIS<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iVFeRgHJ2Ks/VCNEy9bfH6I/AAAAAAAAAk4/Z0SPskxT2cA/s1600/nursing%2Bpress%2Bconference.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iVFeRgHJ2Ks/VCNEy9bfH6I/AAAAAAAAAk4/Z0SPskxT2cA/s1600/nursing%2Bpress%2Bconference.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a><o:p><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> </span></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Today
I had the pleasure of announcing a new partnership with the <a href="http://www.nursing.uic.edu/">University of Illinois at Chicago College of Nursing</a> and <a href="https://www.choosememorial.org/">Memorial Health System</a> to offer a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at UIS starting in fall 2015.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Not
only will this bring one of the top ranked nursing education programs in the
nation to Springfield, but it will help UIS grow and fulfill a need for more
baccalaureate level nurses in Springfield. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This
type of collaboration, that benefits students and our communities, as well as
makes the most efficient use of our resources, is what the University of
Illinois does best.</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;"> </span></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><u5:p></u5:p></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">You
can learn more about the partnership by visiting <a href="http://www.uis.edu/nursing/">http://www.uis.edu/nursing/</a></span><span style="font-family: Bookman Old Style, serif; font-size: 14pt;"><u5:p></u5:p></span><o:p></o:p></div>
Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-62027130250252111672014-09-16T11:39:00.001-07:002014-09-17T06:32:48.953-07:00The Water is flowing!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5nbO2gnrPt4/VBiDtPyaf1I/AAAAAAAAAko/6iF1iVH_d1g/s1600/Campus%2BWaterfall.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5nbO2gnrPt4/VBiDtPyaf1I/AAAAAAAAAko/6iF1iVH_d1g/s1600/Campus%2BWaterfall.jpg" height="133" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">Did you know that UIS now has its very own waterfall? Our UIS grounds crew have been working tirelessly for many weeks to complete a new waterfall at the UIS pond and I am happy to report they have finished and the water is flowing! The waterfall was built to honor recently retired UIS horticulturalist, Joan Buckles, who led the grounds crew at UIS for many years and is partly responsible for the beautiful campus that we call our own. Thanks to Brian Beckerman and all the members of the crew who did such a beautiful job on this project. As you enjoy the beautiful fall weather, I hope you will take a few minutes and wander over to the UIS pond to enjoy this wonderful new addition to our campus property. </span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-76736388478906990792014-09-09T13:40:00.002-07:002014-09-09T13:40:51.790-07:00UIS is growing!<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8uu4FIrUzk/VA9lpZf6ymI/AAAAAAAAAkY/DHOumDax40I/s1600/Random%2BCampus%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Y8uu4FIrUzk/VA9lpZf6ymI/AAAAAAAAAkY/DHOumDax40I/s1600/Random%2BCampus%2B2.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Word is getting out to more and more that UIS is a great place to learn
and grow … and we are growing! Our <a href="http://news.uis.edu/2014/09/uis-reports-highest-enrollment-in.html">fall 2014 enrollment report</a> was released this morning and it’s now official: UIS has the
highest enrollment in the history of the campus!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We’ve grown by almost
300 students this year. I’m especially pleased that the academic quality
of our freshman class continues to increase at the same time the student body
is becoming more diverse. Fifteen percent of our student body this year
is international – with most international students coming from India and
China. Whether you came to join our academic community from across the
street or from the other side of the globe; I’m pleased that you have chosen
the Springfield campus to pursue your University of Illinois degree. I
look forward to the contributions you will make to our academic community.</span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-80709000752864138342014-09-05T07:15:00.000-07:002014-09-05T07:15:14.108-07:00UIS and Downtown Springfield, a wonderful partnership<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rZVZRSfhoU/VAnEIk8pqFI/AAAAAAAAAkI/Tecy9rbMzbs/s1600/OldState.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7rZVZRSfhoU/VAnEIk8pqFI/AAAAAAAAAkI/Tecy9rbMzbs/s1600/OldState.jpg" height="112" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 11pt;"><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">One of the best advantages of being part of the
UI Springfield campus community is being located in Springfield, Illinois. As part of our ongoing partnership with Springfield’s downtown
promotional organization, Downtown Springfield, Inc., we recently created a
message to express how much we all enjoy downtown Springfield and all it has to
offer. I hope you enjoy the <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8FHyIaN6hy0&list=UU0ylD4QDAO7J1is1VsTXV0g">short video </a>we put together … as much as we
enjoyed making it! What do you like best about downtown Springfield? </span></span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-35516440167860503012014-09-04T08:55:00.000-07:002014-09-04T08:55:07.213-07:00UIS students are already out there contributing in the community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKqK5Mj4dnQ/VAiH_Z1r--I/AAAAAAAAAj4/kRzlTFPrcvM/s1600/Service-A-Thon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-IKqK5Mj4dnQ/VAiH_Z1r--I/AAAAAAAAAj4/kRzlTFPrcvM/s1600/Service-A-Thon.jpg" height="142" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The fall semester at UIS has just begun; but our students are already out there in the community volunteering, representing the University of Illinois and gaining valuable “real-world” experience! The annual <a href="http://news.uis.edu/2014/08/uis-students-give-back-during-welcome.html">Welcome Week Service-A-Thon</a> has become a tradition during the first week of classes and it’s a great opportunity for new students (as well are returning students) to get to know their community better. This event just gets bigger and bigger, thanks in part to the leadership provided by Mark Dochterman, the Director of the <a href="http://www.uis.edu/volunteer/">UIS Volunteer and Civic Engagement Center</a>. As Chancellor of UIS, I’m out in the community every week and I constantly hear from community leaders and citizens that they appreciate everything that our campus contributes to the “greater good” in Springfield and in Sangamon County. My thanks to everyone who participated in the Service-A-Thon this year! I hope it’s the start of a record year of community service at UIS.</span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-56858857945631570402014-08-29T08:47:00.000-07:002014-08-29T08:47:38.580-07:00The "Blue Men" are coming!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-72IBmdK8TMM/U_-TbAzr5oI/AAAAAAAAAjo/C5Xysx8X8nk/s1600/BMG_main_000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-72IBmdK8TMM/U_-TbAzr5oI/AAAAAAAAAjo/C5Xysx8X8nk/s1600/BMG_main_000.jpg" height="132" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">One of the best things about being part of the UIS community is that we have a fabulous performing arts center right on our campus. <a href="http://www.uis.edu/sangamonauditorium/">Sangamon Auditorium</a> offers a terrific slate of top-level performances every year – from Broadway shows to professional dance ensembles to musical artists to theatre to comedians – it’s a wonderful resource for the university and for the entire central Illinois region. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">One of my favorite activities as Chancellor is sharing the Chancellor’s reserved seats with special invited guests – especially students. The wildly popular <a href="http://www.uis.edu/sangamonauditorium/onstage/BlueManGroup1415.htm">Blue Man Group</a> will be performing in our Sangamon Auditorium next week with two shows on September 5 & 6. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">If you are a student reading this blog post, I have a special offer for you. For the first ten students who send an email message to UIS Director of Community Relations, Joan Sestak, I’ll provide you with a free one (<i>in a pretty darn great seat</i>) to see Blue Man Group on campus next week. Send your request (<i>better hurry</i>) to Joan Sestak at <a href="mailto:jsest1@uis.edu">jsest1@uis.edu</a>. If you are a winner, Joan will respond and let you know how to pick up your free ticket. </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">By the way, whether you win or not, keep in mind that Sangamon Auditorium has special student rates for performances all year long. I hope you will become a regular member of the audience this year.
</span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-42463489647018188882014-08-27T14:15:00.001-07:002014-08-27T14:15:13.720-07:00Chancellor’s Welcome Picnic – A great tradition at UIS<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMRxRL_DNEA/U_5J_lw8IeI/AAAAAAAAAjY/C3yRYw_z8Ww/s1600/Picnic%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-DMRxRL_DNEA/U_5J_lw8IeI/AAAAAAAAAjY/C3yRYw_z8Ww/s1600/Picnic%2B4.jpg" height="138" width="200" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">For all readers of the UIS Chancellor’s blog, welcome (or welcome back) to the 2014-2015 Academic Year at UIS! I appreciate your participation in the life of our campus via the Chancellor’s blog and look forward to sharing lots of news, stories and thoughts about our campus and the members of our academic community throughout the coming year. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">The <a href="http://news.uis.edu/2014/08/chancellors-picnic-makes-students-feel.html">Chancellor’s Welcome Picnic</a> is a wonderful tradition of fun, food, music, meeting, and greeting during the first week of classes on campus. As expected...it didn’t disappoint yesterday. This gathering was my fourth serving as picnic “Host”, and the event continues to be one of my favorites of the year. I’ll grant you, at 92 degrees it was a little warmer than usual; but the heat didn’t seem to discourage the hundreds of students, faculty and staff who enjoyed the great food, awesome DJ (UIS alum Jaime Cruz) and the opportunity to get together for enjoyable conversation. The crowd was large and energetic ….. and grateful for the option to sit either outside and enjoy the music or inside where the temperature was at least 20 degrees cooler. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Georgia,"Times New Roman",serif;">I had a great time walking around and talking with so many students and staff – many of whom are new to our campus this year. Thanks everyone for joining us for this annual campus tradition and best wishes for a productive and enjoyable year! </span>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-931480711988121731.post-88827957440027099802014-05-15T08:15:00.001-07:002014-05-15T08:15:20.334-07:00A little late night food and fun<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ffwz-E_d6bo/U3TZbe5wJJI/AAAAAAAAAjA/7SJhB40K7tY/s1600/Breakfast+2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Ffwz-E_d6bo/U3TZbe5wJJI/AAAAAAAAAjA/7SJhB40K7tY/s1600/Breakfast+2.jpg" height="164" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I have always enjoyed the UIS tradition - “Finals Week Late Night Breakfast." Last year I did a blog
post about whether <a href="http://chancellorblog.uis.edu/2013/05/is-french-toast-really-french.html">French Toast is really French</a>. Last
night's Late Night Breakfast was another great night. Unlike past years, I
didn’t help serve the food; instead I just wanted to mingle and have some
conversations with students – especially those who are graduating. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">The
topic of the evening seemed to be - "real" bacon vs. turkey bacon! I'm
a real bacon fan myself; so it would take a lot to convince me that turkey
bacon is better!! I think everyone agreed that it was all good … and that
it was nice to have a little late night feast as the semester comes to an end. I'm going to miss those seniors; but it was also nice to talk with
a lot of freshmen who've had a great year and are looking forward to coming
back next year. Happy summer, everyone!</span><u1:p></u1:p>Susan J. Kochhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08326437785074547660noreply@blogger.com