Description of Responsibilities

Within the limits of authority fixed by the Illinois constitution and laws, the Board of Trustees exercises final authority over the University. For the proper use of funds appropriated by the General Assembly and for the proper administration and government of the University, the Board of Trustees is responsible to the people of Illinois.

As the governing body of the University, the Board of Trustees exercises jurisdiction in all matters except those for which it has delegated authority to the President of the University, other officers, or agencies of the University.

The Board of Trustees meets every other month, generally on a Thursday. Meeting locations are rotated through the three University of Illinois universities: Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield. The beginning of each meeting depends upon the location; meetings typically begin at 8:00 a.m. unless announced otherwise.

Trustees are expected to actively participate in all meetings of the board, and expected to fully participate in appointed committee and University-related organization board assignments.

Membership of the Board

The Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois consists of thirteen members, eleven who have official votes. Nine are appointed by the Governor for terms of six years, and three student trustees (one from each campus: Urbana-ChampaignChicago, and Springfield) are elected by referenda at their university for one-year terms. One of these student trustees is appointed by the Governor to have an official vote. The Governor serves as an ex officio member.

Pursuant to University of Illinois Trustees Act (110 ILCS 310/0.01), no more than 5 of the 9 appointed trustees shall be affiliated with the same political party. Regardless of political party affiliation, all interested candidates are highly encouraged to apply. Each trustee must declare affiliation with the party of their choice.

Terms of office of appointed trustees are staggered so that 3 terms expire in each odd-numbered year.

Eligibility

Each trustee appointed by the Governor must be a resident of the State of Illinois.

All interested candidates are highly encouraged to apply, regardless of political party affiliation. Each trustee must declare affiliation with the political party of their choice. No more than 5 of the 9 appointed trustees shall be affiliated with the same political party.

The Illinois Ethics Act restricts registered lobbyists from serving on certain boards. Pursuant to the Lobbyist Registration Act (25 ILCS 170/1), a person required to be registered under this Act, his or her spouse, and his or her immediate family members living with that person may not serve on a board, commission, authority, or task force authorized or created by State law or by executive order of the Governor.

For full details on the role and expectations of Board members, please visit the Board of Trustees website.

Important Websites


Illinois Connection Advocacy Network

Illinois Connection is the University of Illinois Alumni Alliance’s legislative advocacy network. Its mission: to gain greater federal and state support for the University of Illinois’s three campuses as well as their interests. By increasing awareness and understanding of the U of I’s positive impact on the state, nation and world, Illinois Connection advocates help to ensure the University’s legacy and longevity.
Visit the Illinois Connection Advocacy Network website to subscribe to their weekly e-newsletter with updates on state issues impacting the University of Illinois System, or join the network. Follow them on Facebook.

Alumni Lobby Day at the State Capitol on February 28, 2018.
Alumni Lobby Day at the Illinois State Capitol on April 3, 2019.

Sangamon Auditorium Volunteer Association

Join a trained corps of more than 235 volunteer ushers to greet, direct, assist and ensure the safety and comfort of patrons attending performances and other events at Sangamon Auditorium and the Studio Theatre. For more information about the Sangamon Auditorium Volunteer Association visit their website or call 217-206-8432.

Volunteer and Civic Engagement Center

Present to first-year students on the topics of leadership and service to students in the Leadership for Life service program. We also welcome professionals with experience in one of our five areas of service: youth and education, hunger and homelessness, public health, community awareness, and sustainability.
For more information, contact volunteer@uis.edu or 217-206-7716.

College of Education and Human Services Alumni Council

The CEHS Advisory Board advocates and supports the growth and development of the College’s educational programs.  Members of the board actively participate in identifying sources of financial support, provide insight into new education and human services practices, and suggest improvements and opportunities for the College and its programs to grow and meet the needs of the local community and beyond.  For more information, please email the CEHS Office Administrator.

International Student Services

  • Regular, on-going Host Family program that can greatly use more volunteers.
  • Help with various activities for the annual International Festival.

For more information about International Student Services, contact Sarah Jome.