Mark your calendar to attend the annual Faculty-Staff Kickoff at 1:30 p.m. Aug. 21 in the Student Union Ballroom. You will hear from the chancellor and vice chancellors about university priorities for the coming academic year and meet new faculty and staff. It’s an opportunity to start the year strong and to network with employees across campus.

Bring a donation for UIS CARES and be entered into a drawing. Requested items include breakfast foods, canned fruits, vegetables, meats and soups, peanut butter and jelly, pasta and sauce, school supplies, and personal care items. See the full list of requested items and other ways to support UIS Cares.

Following Kickoff, employees are encouraged to celebrate the incoming class at New Student Convocation at 3 p.m. Students will hear from peers and key employees about how to succeed in college and at UIS and unite in the Prairie Star Pledge. Join us directly after Convocation for food and entertainment on the Quad, open to everyone on campus.

See schedule below:

• Faculty & Staff AY25-26 Kickoff: 1:30-2:45 p.m. Aug 21, Student Union Ballroom
• First-Year Student Convocation: 3 p.m. Aug. 21, location TBD
• Party on the Quad: immediately following Convocation until 6:30 p.m.

This has been designated an “approved event.” With prior approval and operations permitting, non-exempt civil service employees may attend the event without loss of pay.