Hometown: Chicago, Illinois

Undergraduate Institution and Major: Loyola University Chicago, B.A. in Political Science

Graduate Institution and Major: Benedictine University Springfield, Master of Business Administration

Bio: Rob Kerr serves as the Associate Director for External and Global Programs with the UIS Office of Continuing and Professional Education (CAPE). His background includes over 20 years in higher education and economic development. His previous positions include Deputy Director for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Technology at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Dean of Enrollment and Career Programs and Registrar at Richland Community College, and Director of Career and Technical Education at the Illinois Community College Board. Also, Rob served as an adjunct faculty member at Benedictine University Springfield for 18 years. He and his wife Nancy have been married for 26 years, and they have five wonderful children.

Relevant Professional Experience:

Associate Director for External and Global Programs with the UIS Office of Continuing and Professional Education;

Deputy Director for Entrepreneurship, Innovation, and Technology at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity;

EDGE Tax Credit Program Manager at the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity;

Dean of Enrollment and Career Programs and Registrar at Richland Community College;

Grant Development Director at Lincoln Land Community College;

Tech Prep Program Director at Lincoln Land Community College;

Director of Career and Technical Education at the Illinois Community College Board;

Research Interests:

Public administration, economic development, tax incentive programs, technology and efficiency in government

Professional Affiliations:

Illinois Association of Concurrent Enrollment Partnerships, State Policy Director;

Illinois Association of Collegiate Registrars & Admissions Officers, Archivist and Regional Chairperson; National Association of Tech Prep Leaders, Policy Committee Chair and National Board Member

Volunteer Activities:

St. Aloysius School Board President

St. Agnes School Strategic Planning Committee and Grant Development Committee

A friend in Deed Charity of Central Illinois

Youth baseball, basketball, and soccer coach