Shannon Stanley

Can you give us a brief timeline of how my career led me to UIS?

I chose a career in higher education inspired by my own experience as a first-generation college student. That journey shaped my professional purpose: helping every student see that educational opportunities are within their reach.

Before coming to UIS, I worked in academic support services, including tutoring and success coaching. In those roles, I noticed a common theme: many students from underrepresented backgrounds hesitate to pursue certain opportunities, not because they can’t succeed, but because they believe those experiences aren’t meant for them.

I can relate — as an undergraduate, I passed up internships and study abroad programs because I assumed those opportunities were only for students with extra resources or connections. That perspective has guided my career and motivated me to help students see possibilities where they might not have looked before.

I was drawn to UIS because this role allows me to make a real impact. I help students understand that internships, research, study abroad and other high-impact experiences are for them. My goal is to remove barriers, so more students can take advantage of opportunities that enrich their learning and open doors for their future careers.

What do you like to do outside of work?

I have a lot of hobbies, but reading has always been my favorite. I’ve always been a bookworm and usually have two to four books going at a time. I’m drawn to horror and murder mysteries, but I enjoy all genres. I really enjoyed the UIS Library Reading Challenge last semester.

I also like spending time outdoors, binge-watching TV shows (my current pick is Schitt’s Creek) and experimenting with different arts and crafts. Right now, my goal is to learn how to crochet.

What's on your travel bucket list?

Travel is something I’m really excited to explore more of. At the top of my bucket list is Ireland. I’ve always been proud of my Irish-American heritage and have dreamed of visiting the country my whole life. Fun fact: I’m named after Ireland’s most famous river, the River Shannon. I’m even learning the Irish language and have maintained a nearly two-year streak on Duolingo.

What celebrity would you like to meet?

This one is easy — Stephen King. I first started reading his work when I was 9, and he’s been my favorite author ever since. I’m fascinated by how he blends extraordinary, often supernatural events into the ordinary lives of his characters to reveal important truths about the human condition. His storytelling has always resonated deeply with me.

His seven-book fantasy series The Dark Tower, which I read as an undergrad, completely changed the way I see the universe and my place in it. Twenty years later, it remains my favorite work of literature. I would love the chance to pick his brain — or even just to thank him for the impact his work has had on my life.