We are excited to introduce one of our newest employees, Elizabeth Wake! Elizabeth joined NPR Illinois in September 2025. In the role of Sponsorship Account Executive, she develops relationships with area businesses, foundations, and individuals to secure sponsorships and acknowledgement (ad) revenue that supports the public journalism mission of NPR Illinois.

We are pleased to spotlight Kate McKenzie for her dedication and work with NPR Illinois and UIS. Kate has worked in the Division of Advancement since late 2019, where she did marketing and communication work before becoming the Development Director for NPR Illinois in 2022. In this role, Kate is responsible for development strategy and implementation. Her work involves building relationships with supporters to encourage giving through philanthropy and gift planning.

We are excited to spotlight Beverly Bunch for her dedication, hard work, and expertise in her role at UIS. Beverly joined the University in 2001. In addition to her position as a professor in the School of Public Management and Policy, she holds a one-third appointment in CSPL. She has worked on projects such as a program evaluation of a certification program for the Free School Lunch program, a book on Community Action (anti-poverty) local leaders, and a series of projects on state budgeting with the Volcker Alliance. Beverly holds a Ph.D.

From City Halls to Statehouses: Lessons from the 2025 Elections

Join us at noon on Thursday, November 20th for a timely and insightful discussion on the 2025 elections and what their outcomes could mean for the 2026 midterms. Our panel brings together top political scholars, journalists, and UIS alumni to break down key local and statewide races in New York City, New Jersey, Virginia, Minnesota, Illinois, and beyond. We'll explore what the results reveal about voter sentiment, party strategies, and the political landscape heading into 2026.

Close-up of the United States Constitution with the words “We the People” visible, placed over an American flag background.

The University of Illinois Springfield Center for State Policy and Leadership will host a series of Constitution Day events Sept. 16-17. The programs are free and open to the public, but registration is required.

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Stories of Justice: An Evening with Amanda Knox

The Illinois Innocence Project is pleased to present "Stories of Justice: An Evening with Amanda Knox" on September 24, 2025 at the Union League Club of Chicago. Amanda will read from her newest book, FREE: My Search for Meaning and share her journey to reclaim her identity after spending 4 years in an Italian prison and enduring 8 years on trial for a murder she did not commit. Following the reading, there will be a panel discussion with Amanda and clients the Illinois Innocence Project has helped exonerate and/or release.

Raising Politically Engaged Kids: Constitution Day Community Panel

The Center for State Policy & Leadership and Springfield Public Schools District 186 are partnering to present a special community panel for Constitution Day 2025. Please join us on September 16th for a discussion on "Raising Politically Engaged Kids." Panelists will include Dr. Lindsey Cormack, author of How to Raise a Citizen, and Terrance Jordan, Director of School Leadership and Family & Community Engagement for District 186. Additional panelists will be announced. Refreshments will be provided, and attendees will receive a copy of Dr. Cormack's book. Scan the QR code above to register - we hope to see you there!

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