UI Foundation/UI Advancement Weekly Update 04.09.21

Dear Team:

It’s not summer yet, although it felt like it much of the week. I hope you are making the most of the better days. On a personal note, I am taking a road trip with my family to Omaha this weekend. I'm actually sitting in my in-laws' kitchen at this very moment. While an eight-hour drive (16 round-trip) may not seem exciting to some, I’m looking forward to visiting with relatives and friends I haven’t been able to see in person since the pandemic began. 

We are certainly not out of the woods yet, however, I think my little journey to Nebraska to visit family is one example that our country’s pandemic journey is heading in a positive direction. Another is that coronavirus vaccines will be available to all eligible individuals in the next few weeks. I hope everyone who wants one, and is able to take one, will have the opportunity to receive the shot soon, so that you and your families can experience more “normal” life activities, as well.

Speaking of “life goes on” realities, I was visiting with a UI parent recently who was gushing with pride that her son was admitted to the Gies College of Business at UIUC. It was a great reminder that our universities are “dreams realized” for so many students and their families. Reflecting on the conversation further, I thought about our donors and the dreams they turn into realities. Coincidentally, the main reason that Mr. and Mrs. Gies made their transformational gift was Mr. Gies wanted to ensure that every student who was capable of being admitted to the UIUC B-school would not be turned away for financial reasons. Dean Jeff Brown and his advancement team worked closely with Larry and Beth Gies on a philanthropic plan that will change lives forever.

The Gies gift is also a great reminder of the strategic and important role our deans, faculty and others play in engaging donors. Last week I asked you to help me think of ways to grow our program by better connecting our many partners. I have received some good ideas from a few of you, but I’d like to hear more, so continue to send them my way. I’ll use my windshield time on the way home to brainstorm as well.

Have a relaxing weekend, and enjoy the spring weather, whether you happen to be on a road trip or your road leads to the couch. There are endless possibilities.

Best,

Jim