UI Foundation/UI Advancement Weekly Update 06.10.22
Dear Team:
Most will agree some tasks on their job descriptions are more exciting than others. One of my favorite to-dos is attending UIF Board of Directors meetings. It is always energizing to be with alumni who care so much for the University of Illinois. Earlier this week, the board met in Chicago for its annual spring meeting. It was the first time we conducted a meeting with most of the directors participating in person since the pandemic began. I'm not overstating things when I say, it was AWESOME! More than doing business in the same room, it was a treat to be able to enjoy casual conversations about life and family.
The Board meeting also included celebrating the successes of the soon-to-conclude With Illinois, Ignite, and Reaching Stellar Campaigns as well as the groundbreaking of our new Center for Philanthropy. There will be plenty more celebrating in the academic year ahead, but it was a true pleasure to recognize all three of our universities for surpassing their campaign goals. President Killeen shared some excellent news, not directly tied to the campaigns but certainly a reflection of their success. According to the most recent data, the University of Illinois System generates $19 billion a year for the state's economy and supports more than 164,000 jobs, or one of every 46. That's an impact on a grand scale and certainly demonstrates the university's power to impact lives and serve society.
Although those of us participating in the Board meeting were not on vacation, thousands in Chicago were. The city's streets are filled with tourists and traffic is again at full strength. Many of you may be planning to vacation this summer, too. If so, snap a few pictures of your travels and send them to Julie Herman. We will share them in a UIF Online photo gallery at summer's end.
Until then, cheers to a fabulous summer full of amazing adventures. While I don't want to close on a down note, please take care and stay safe. Some places are seeing significant spikes in COVID, so be mindful of your exposure and test often.
Best,
Jim