The following story was published by the Illinois Times on Aug. 24, 2026.

Chancellor Janet L. Gooch: The University of Illinois Springfield begins a new academic year today, marking the 56th first day of classes since our university welcomed its first students in 1970. A lot has changed since then, but our commitment remains the same: providing an excellent educational experience, both in and out of the classroom, for every learner.

I always enjoy the start of a new academic year. There is an energy on campus that is hard to miss as students move into their residence halls, find their classrooms, reconnect with friends and get involved. I also enjoy welcoming new students to Springfield and watching them begin to make this community their home.

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