Ryan Becker--Discovering the leader within

From its earliest days as Sangamon State University, students have played an active role in university decisions. Ryan Becker’s story shows that hasn’t changed today.

Chosen to Work on the Strategic Plan

As a student, Ryan worked at Brookens, UIS’ excellent library. The job must have been a good fit: in 2006, when it came time to work on the library’s strategic plan, Jane Treadwell, University Librarian and Dean of Instructional Services, chose Ryan to be the student representative.

He took his role seriously, seeking out students’ comments and requests. One request he remembers sharing with the committee was for more access points to computers throughout the library.

Bringing Lots of Questions

He also contributed lots of questions to the committee. He says those questions probably helped the committee more than anything:

“Those questions,” Ryan says, “often sparked a discussion of new ways to deal with old problems.”

Ryan’s experiences illustrate how often UIS’ close student-faculty interaction outside the classroom helps students discover the leader within.

"Ryan was one of the most engaged members of the Strategic Planning Committee,” says Treadwell. “He really exhibited the poise and the critical thinking skills that a UIS education can produce."

Questions?

If you are interested in providing support for students like Ryan, to whom Brookens Library plays an important part in their education, please use the How You Can Help link at left to learn more about funds that support the library. You can also contact our office directly at 217.206.6058. Thank you!