Springfield’s class of 2020 was honored Saturday afternoon in two separate commencement exercises, deferred because of the pandemic.

UIS Chancellor Emerita, Susan Koch, conferred diploma covers to approximately 150 graduates. COVID protocols were in place for both ceremonies held at the UIS Sangamon Auditorium.

This story appeared on WTAX on Sept. 18, 2021.

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Joey McLaughlin talks with Vickie S. Cook, who is the Acting Associate Provost for Enrollment Management and Associate Vice Chancellor for Online, Professional and Engaged Learning about a new ranking by U.S. News and World Report and about the UIS adopting the Common App, and waiving the application fee.

This interview occurred on Sept. 17, 2021.

Listen to the entire interview online.

The University of Illinois Springfield will offer 42 accelerated on-campus, online and blended courses for prospective and current students. All classes will begin Monday, Oct. 18, and will conclude in December.

“This is a great opportunity for new UIS students to start or finish their education,” said UIS Interim Chancellor Karen Whitney. “It’s also a chance for current students to add to their course load and potentially earn their degree in a shorter period of time.”

Hometown: Chatham, IllinoisMajor: CommunicationFuture Plans: Work as a public relation specialist

The pandemic heightened food insecurity for families across Illinois.

Now, research is showing students on college campuses are also feeling the impact.

At the University of Illinois Springfield, they have a food pantry where students can come and get food at no cost.

Jill Hawkins-Wright, the director of the Volunteer and Civic Engagement Center at UIS, said students are tight on time and also paying for costs that come with schools like books and transportation.