8.22.25
Dear UIS Community —
Welcome to the start of the fall semester. Today marks the 55th first day of classes since this university welcomed its first students in 1970. It is a moment to celebrate our history and look ahead to the future we are continuing to build together.
For more than five decades, UIS has served as Springfield’s public university. For the past 30 years, it has also been an integral part of the University of Illinois System. UIS is a place where passionate learners, innovative thinkers and engaged citizens come together to make an impact. That legacy continues because of the dedication and spirit of our students, faculty and staff.
You may have noticed construction activity on the quad. I’m excited to share that the new Library Commons project is underway. Scheduled to open in 2027, the three-story, 52,000-square-foot building is a publicly funded project supported by the State of Illinois. It will bring together library services, advising and academic support, career development and technology assistance in one accessible, student-centered location. We’re planning a ground-breaking celebration beginning at 1:30 p.m. Sept. 19, so watch for more details.
We’re also growing our footprint in downtown Springfield, with the recently announced expansion of Innovate Springfield and its upcoming relocation to the third floor of Horace Mann. Innovate Springfield has supported regional entrepreneurs and startup businesses for the past 10 years. This move will allow Innovate Springfield to expand in scope and add nearly 3,000 square feet that will support new partnerships, additional co-working and incubation areas, instructional space for workforce development and larger areas for events and pitch competitions.
While I’m excited about the progress we’re experiencing, I also recognize the challenges facing higher education today. Changes at the federal level are creating new uncertainty, and UIS leaders are monitoring these developments closely. Our commitment remains steadfast, and UIS will continue to be a welcoming place where students of all backgrounds can learn, lead and grow.
Over this next year, our campus community will hear a lot about the strategic steps we’re taking to continue to meet student needs. Through the NorthStar Initiative, the results of an in-depth Academic Portfolio Review will soon be shared. This review evaluates academic programs based on factors such as workforce demand, enrollment trends and community impact. My goal is to ensure that UIS continues to offer high-quality, mission-aligned programs that support student success.
I believe that when facing challenging times and big decisions as an organization, it is important to remember who we are and what we’re here for. Our identity, mission and vision guide our priorities. UIS is a public regional comprehensive university where students are empowered to succeed and make a lasting impact, where potential meets possibility, and where learning happens by doing and with purpose. I encourage everyone to take pride in our university and your contributions to building our legacy. Every one of us has a role to play, and when we move forward together, we make UIS stronger.
As we begin this new academic year, please stay engaged, open to new ideas and make the most of the opportunities ahead. If you’re on campus, a great way to get involved is by participating in our Welcome Week events.
Whether you are here in Springfield or joining us from another location, you are an important part of this community. Together, we can take pride in creating a strong and supportive environment that helps students become the leaders of tomorrow.
Let’s have a great year!
Janet
Janet L. Gooch, Ph.D.
Chancellor
University of Illinois Springfield
P.S. If you missed last night’s New Student Convocation and Party on the Quad, be sure to check out our social media coverage on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and LinkedIn. Thanks to the Division of Student Affairs and other university colleagues for a fun start to the new semester!