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.

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.

UIS Faculty and Staff:

UIS and the Center for State Policy and Leadership (CSPL) have been invited to partner in the Inaugural Edgar Fellows Capitol Connections Day.

The inaugural Capitol Connections Day for undergraduate college students interested in careers in public service will be held from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Monday, April 7, 2025, with morning sessions at the Illinois State Capitol and lunch and afternoon sessions at the Governor’s Mansion.  An optional tour of the Executive Mansion may be available at the end of the day. 

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield’s Center for State Policy and Leadership will host a Constitution Day panel discussion focusing on issues related to the 2024 election, such as the Electoral College, voter registration and the role of the media. The event is free and open to the public.

WHEN: 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., Tuesday, Sept. 17

WHERE: UIS Lincoln Residence Hall Great Room, 2160 Vachel Lindsay Drive, Springfield

We are excited to announce the next installment of the monthly Employee Development Series: The CSPL Showcase. This session will be presented by The Center for State Policy and Leadership. Attendees will learn about the important work happening within The Center and hear from The Office of Research and Evaluation, The Office of Graduate Intern Programs, and The Illinois Innocence Project through presentations and a panel discussion.

WHAT: The University of Illinois Springfield Center for State Policy and Leadership (CSPL), the University of Illinois System Institute of Government and Public Affairs (IGPA) and the Illinois Innovation Network (IIN) will present two days of presentations, discussion and networking around policy and social innovation. Breakfast, lunch and refreshments will be provided. Registration is required.

WHEN: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Tuesday, April 23 and Wednesday, April 24

WHERE: UIS and downtown Springfield

The Samuel K. Gove Illinois Legislative Internship Hall of Fame at the University of Illinois Springfield will induct five new members during a ceremony at 7 p.m. on April 23 at the Abraham Lincoln Presidential Library in Springfield. Prior to the awards ceremony, a reception will be held at 6 p.m.