Academic Affairs Colleagues,
I write to provide an update on the Academic Portfolio Review and Prioritization process. From the beginning, the Academic Portfolio Review (APR) was not intended to be a retrospective exercise. It was designed to help programs look forward, clarify priorities, and make intentional choices about where to invest time and resources, where to adapt, and where to let go.
March 2026
From Provost Schwab
Greetings!
As we near the midpoint of the semester and anticipate spring recess, the longer days and milder temperatures offer a welcome reminder that progress—both personal and professional—is often incremental and cumulative. Even during this busy time, I hope you are finding moments to enjoy the change in season and to pause, if only briefly, amid competing priorities.
Dear Colleagues,
I am pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Gregg “Bagel” Johnson as the next Dean of the College of Public Affairs and Education (CPAE), pending final approval by the Board of Trustees. Dr. Johnson brings effective academic and administrative leadership experience, along with a strong commitment to public higher education and its role in advancing the public good. His appointment will begin July 1, 2026.
January-February 2026
From Provost Schwab
Greetings,
December 2025
From Provost Schwab
Greetings,
November 2025
From Provost Schwab
Greetings,
As we barrel toward the later part of the semester and the wonderful change of fall foliage, I’ve been reminded of the importance of self-care during this busy time of the year. I was recently waylaid by a nasty bug that set me back for several days. I am fortunate that such an occurrence is rare for me, and I hope that remains the case. Nevertheless, it was not good. I hope you and your loved ones stay healthy and safe in this “germy” time of the year.
From Provost Schwab
Greetings,
I hope your fall semester is progressing in good ways. It is hard to believe that the mid-point of the semester is quickly approaching. The first half has been a bit of a blur, hence the September newsletter arriving in October.
Dear UIS Community,
From Provost Schwab
Colleagues,
I hope your semester is off to a good start and that you have enjoyed meeting new students and colleagues and reconnecting with others. The beautiful weather has provided a wonderful backdrop for the flurry of activity around the start of the new academic year.
According to UIS policy, each academic year the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs & Provost notifies the UIS community of the names of those among the faculty scheduled for tenure review and second- or fourth-year reappointment review. Listed below are the names of the faculty members scheduled for reviews this academic year:

