We are excited to introduce one of our newest employees, Elizabeth Wake! Elizabeth joined NPR Illinois in September 2025. In the role of Sponsorship Account Executive, she develops relationships with area businesses, foundations, and individuals to secure sponsorships and acknowledgement (ad) revenue that supports the public journalism mission of NPR Illinois.

We are pleased to spotlight Kate McKenzie for her dedication and work with NPR Illinois and UIS. Kate has worked in the Division of Advancement since late 2019, where she did marketing and communication work before becoming the Development Director for NPR Illinois in 2022. In this role, Kate is responsible for development strategy and implementation. Her work involves building relationships with supporters to encourage giving through philanthropy and gift planning.

We are excited to spotlight Beverly Bunch for her dedication, hard work, and expertise in her role at UIS. Beverly joined the University in 2001. In addition to her position as a professor in the School of Public Management and Policy, she holds a one-third appointment in CSPL. She has worked on projects such as a program evaluation of a certification program for the Free School Lunch program, a book on Community Action (anti-poverty) local leaders, and a series of projects on state budgeting with the Volcker Alliance. Beverly holds a Ph.D.