10.13.25
It’s finally starting to feel like fall! And with that, I invite you to join me for the Fall Employee Information Session from 3–4:30 p.m. on Oct. 16 in Brookens Auditorium. This session will cover important updates on NorthStar initiatives—including enrollment and retention management and construction projects—followed by a Q&A to engage with university leaders. It is open to all civil service staff, academic professional staff and faculty. This session will be recorded for those who cannot attend.
New Information
2024-25 Enrollment and Retention Management Impact Report
The 2024-25 Enrollment and Retention Management Impact Report highlights how we are advancing student success and strengthening enrollment and retention efforts. Thank you for your continued dedication to our students and mission.
Multi-Factor SMS Retiring October 30
If you use SMS passcodes when signing in to university resources with Duo, you will need to follow the instructions on Orbit to select a different option before Oct. 30.
Annual Security and Fire Safety Report
In compliance with federal regulations and the Jeanne Clery Campus Safety Act, the 2025 UIS Annual Security and Fire Safety Report is now available. The report details crime and fire statistics from 2022–24 and outlines UIS’ safety policies and prevention efforts. We encourage you to review the report and learn about how you can help keep our campus community safe.
SECA Campaign Silent Auction
It's time to buy a basket as part of the 2025 SECA Campaign! SECA is an opportunity for UIS employees to donate to the charity of their choice via payroll deduction or a one-time gift. Online bidding will be open from Nov. 3 to Nov. 7. Winners will be announced, and payment will be due on Nov. 10.
Department Newsletters
In the Human Resources October Newsletter, you’ll find reminders to complete your annual ethics training by 5 p.m. on Oct. 31, and to participate in upcoming events — Supervisor Development Day on Oct. 30 and the Know Your U visit to Emiquon Nature Reserve on Oct. 24.
In the AI at UIS Newsletter, the AI Steering Committee introduces new Special Interest Groups (SIGs) and shares featured articles to help you stay informed on the latest in artificial intelligence.
The Office of Web & Digital Strategy made major strides in FY25 to enhance the uis.edu website and mobile app—making them easier to navigate, more accessible and more intuitive for visitors and editors. Explore the FY25 Website Impact Report to see key highlights.
If you spot any issues on the site or app, please report them to help ensure a seamless digital experience for all users. Learn more in the Strategic Communication October Newsletter.
Upcoming Events
- Bite-Sized Wellbeing During Uncertain Times: Evidence, Practice and Resources to Share: 1-3 p.m. Oct. 14. Zoom. Dr. Sexton will explore the mechanisms behind burnout and share evidence-based strategies to improve well-being. Register for the event and learn about the system’s new Mental Health Awareness and Support website on Orbit.
- Lunch and learn Series: “Understanding Political Polarization”: 11 a.m. Oct. 16. Illini Country Club. A.J. Simmons, research director of the UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership, will examine the roots of polarization in the United States, and what actions might help bridge the gap. Cost is $50 and you must have registered by Oct. 9.
- Open Photo Studio Sessions: noon-4:30 p.m. Oct. 14 and 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 15, BSB 95. The Department of Strategic Communication will host two Open Photo Studio sessions. These professional headshots can be used for university and professional purposes.
- Friday Night Star Parties: 8-10 p.m. Oct. 17 and 24. UIS Observatory. Friday Night Star Parties are free and open to the public. Events may be canceled because of cloudy weather. Updates will be shared on Instagram, @SPIAstroGuy.
- Creating Accessible Word Documents Workshop: 11 a.m.-noon. Oct. 22. Zoom. Discover best practices for creating accessible word documents.
- SECA Bingo: 11:30 a.m. Oct. 22. Student Union Ballroom. Join us for SECA Bingo, where all proceeds will go to Compass for Kids.
- ECCE Speaker Series: A Radical Turn: Artist, Curator and Anti-War Veteran Aaron Hughes On Creative Resistance: 6-7:30 p.m. Oct. 22. Brookens Auditorium. Aaron Hughes, an artist, curator and anti-war veteran, will share images and stories from his projects, which draw on his own military experience and long-standing activism.
- Flu Shots: 9 a.m.-noon. Oct. 24. PAC Lobby. Protect yourself and others this flu season! UIS Health Services and the Sangamon County Department of Public Health will offer flu shots to the UIS community. Please bring your health insurance card. Shots are free for those in-network.
- International Festival: 1-4 p.m. Oct. 25. TRAC. Come explore various cultural exhibits, watch live performances and try international food to celebrate UIS's rich international and cultural diversity.
- Samuel K. Gove Legislative Internship Hall of Fame Reception & Induction Ceremony: 5:30-9 p.m. Oct. 27. Old State Capitol Building. The Center for State Policy and Leadership and the Office of Graduate Intern Programs are pleased to host the 2025 Samuel K. Gove Legislative Internship Hall of Fame Reception & Induction Ceremony!
- Trunk or Treat for Canned Goods: 9:45 a.m.-10:45 a.m. Oct. 31. Parking Lot B. The Cox Children’s Center and the Volunteer and Civic Engagement Center are hosting Trunk or Treat for Canned Goods. All donations directly benefit the UIS Cares Food Pantry. Register your department today!
Check the employee events calendar on Orbit for more opportunities to learn, connect and celebrate together.
Information that Bears Repeating
U.S. News & World Report Rankings
UIS has once again been ranked the top public regional university in Illinois by U.S. News & World Report, marking the seventh consecutive year. The 2026 Best Colleges rankings also place UIS 10th among public regional universities in the Midwest. Read more in the UIS Newsroom.
Conflict of Interest Form for Civil Service Employees is due by Oct. 31
Under Regulation 16.011 - Policy and Rules, Civil Service employees are now required to complete an annual conflict of interest form. UIS employees can visit Orbit to complete the required form by Oct. 31.
Annual Ethics Training
On Oct. 1, you should have received an email to complete your mandatory 2025 Annual Ethics Training. This training is due by 5 p.m. on Oct. 31. This course should take less than an hour to complete.
Fall Accelerated Classes begin Oct. 20
There’s still time for your students to register for fall accelerated courses! This is an excellent opportunity for students to catch up, get ahead or simply take a new course they find interesting. A full list of classes is available here.
Library Commons Construction Schedule and Parking Lot D closure
Facilities and Services released a construction schedule for the Library Commons; activities may shift depending on weather or material availability. Parking Lot D will be closed until the Spring semester. You can explore the new Construction Projects page to stay current on all projects shaping our campus.
Presidential Proclamation on H-1B Visas
On Sept. 19, the White House issued a Presidential Proclamation that restricts certain nonimmigrant workers with H-1B visas from entering the U.S. At this time, H-1B visa holders are strongly advised to avoid international travel, as reentry to the U.S. may be restricted. UIS is actively monitoring the situation and will continue to communicate directly with those who are affected. Updates will be provided as information becomes available. Read more on Orbit.
Campus Art Loan Program
Bring your office to life with art! UIS faculty and staff can borrow pieces from the Art & Artifacts Collection through the intra-campus loan program. Explore the collection and request your favorite pieces on Orbit.
Celebrating Our Star Power
Michele Gribbins, associate provost for institutional research and effectiveness, has been named Employee of the Month for October 2025. Her nominator says, “UIS is a better place to work because of Michele,” while her supervisor compliments her positive work ethic and desire to take on additional tasks without hesitation. Read more about Michelle on Orbit.
UIS Athletics has welcomed a new “Director of Pawsitivity” — Shelly Camburn, a six-year-old mini-Goldendoodle certified through Pet Partners as a therapy dog. Handled by her owner, Head Athletic Trainer Christopher Camburn, Shelly brings comfort and encouragement to student-athletes as they recover from injuries, navigate tough days or simply need a moment of joy.
Getting to Know You
Ayanna Lewis, career advisor, began her professional journey as a school librarian, where she discovered her passion for advising and teaching—a path that ultimately led her to UIS. Outside of work, she’s pursuing three personal goals this year: growing okra in her home garden, improving her swimming strokes and exploring more regional and national parks through hiking adventures. Learn more about Ayanna on Orbit.
Happy Fall!
Janet
Janet L. Gooch, Ph.D.
Chancellor
University of Illinois Springfield
P.S. If you have a topic you’d like me to consider for my newsletter, submit your idea here. I always appreciate the opportunity to showcase your news, events and accomplishments. Highlighting the outstanding work happening across our campus community allows us to celebrate your achievements, promote engagement and share the many ways UIS continues to make a positive impact.