iiinova — where your digital self keeps evolving

The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 7h

Talent. Technology. Trust. A road ahead filled with opportunities for Illinois. In this long-form podcast with Crain's Chicago Business, President Tim Killeen reflects on what he has learned during his nearly 12 years leading the University of Illinois System. Watch now: ow.ly/OiO450ZWXuB

Jim Kirk and Dr. Timothy Killeen in a virtual discussion, each framed in separate video call windows with professional backgrounds.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 02/10/2026

We had big moments throughout September, including our annual Leadership State Tour and yet another systemwide enrollment record. Read all about it in Stay Connected! 📈 September edition: ow.ly/eJJM50ZU2Rw 📩 Subscribe here: ow.ly/riky50ZU2RB

Stay Connected
September 2026
University of Illinois System

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

Wrapping up an exhilarating week on the road across Illinois, University of Illinois System leaders visited Lanphier High School in Springfield. Lanphier serves students for whom the path to an in-state public university isn't always visible — but today, the U of I System made it a little clearer.

Diverse group of twelve people standing on stage in front of a screen with a QR code and text about joining a university system.

Diverse group of young adults attentively listening during a lecture in a modern auditorium with orange seating.

Young woman speaking into a microphone during a panel discussion on stage with seated participants.

Four professionals seated on stage during a panel discussion, one woman speaking into a microphone while others listen attentively.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

President Killeen and our chancellors gathered at University of Illinois Springfield to reflect upon what they saw and heard across the state this week. The conversation underscored the importance of the partnership between system and state, and the tangible benefits that it provides to Illinoisans.

A man speaking into a microphone during a formal panel discussion with two other professionals on stage.

Two individuals seated on stage during a discussion, one speaking into a microphone while the other listens attentively.

6th Annual Leadership State Tour
Invested in Illinois
"We are investing in strategic partnerships that bring people together, programs that meet workforce needs and experiences that prepare students not just for the first job, but for fulfilling careers and purpose-driven lives."
Janet L. Gooch, chancellor at University of Illinois Springfield

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 25/09/2026

In Belleville, we honored those building a stronger Metro East. From the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Food, Agriculture and Nutrition Innovation Center to our program offering in-state rates to neighboring Metro East counties, we're not just visiting; we're continuing to invest in the area.

A man in a suit with hands clasped faces a woman speaking at a podium during an event with an Illinois-themed presentation behind them.

Woman with blue glasses and a blazer smiling confidently during an outdoor social gathering.

Two people smiling and chatting near a rustic bar counter with decorative gourds and a gift bag on top.

Woman with short hair speaking at a wooden podium in a dimly lit room with a microphone nearby.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Our partnership with the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services is making a positive, tangible impact on healthcare outcomes across the state, and we saw proof of that today in the Metro East. We'll continue to provide academic and workforce pipelines to improve the region's health.

Three women smiling and posing for a selfie outdoors near a sign, one wearing a red jacket and sunglasses.

Smiling people standing in front of a newly built house with a man in the doorway behind them.

Group of diverse healthcare professionals and staff posing outside a hospital near a bus with University of Illinois System branding.

6th Annual Leadership State Tour
Invested in Illinois
"UIC has long partnered with rural communities, particularly around rural health. These partnerships begin - and endure - because of our commitment to listening, learning, and understanding the challenges and opportunities they experience."

Chancellor Marie Lynn Miranda of the University of Illinois Chicago

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

Through our partnership with Illinois Virtual Schools & Academy, we're providing access to high-quality learning to every corner of Illinois. At North Mac High School, we heard how IVSA helps solve their staffing and access challenges — and watched a live physics lesson taught by an IVSA teacher!

A diverse group of professionals attending a meeting in a modern conference room with a video call displayed on a wall-mounted screen.

Three professionals engaged in a discussion during a meeting in a modern office setting with a large TV screen behind them.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

At last night's reception at Peoria's Distillery Labs, we thanked the leaders, organizations, and advocates whose partnership has shaped what we're able to do for Greater Peoria. We reaffirmed our commitment to forging ahead together, ready to write the next chapter in Peoria's story.

Two women smiling and posing together in a modern lounge with large windows and people mingling in the background.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 24/09/2026

As our Illinois Innovation Network hub in Peoria, Distillery Labs is strengthening the River City's reputation as a center for innovation and talent development. We joined a taping of "In the Arena" that highlighted our investment in healthcare infrastructure and entrepreneurship in the region.

Three men standing together indoors, smiling at the camera, with one wearing a blue blazer, another in a denim shirt, and the third in a black suit with a yellow tie.

Three people engaged in a lively discussion on a rustic studio set with wooden walls and barrels as decor.

Multiple camera feeds show a televised panel discussion with four people seated against a brick wall backdrop labeled 'In The Arena'.

Group of diverse adults posing in a warmly lit studio with rustic wooden and brick walls, smiling at the camera.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Renowned for its extraordinary record of college acceptance and scholarship attainment, Southland College Prep produces talent that the U of I System aims to keep in Illinois. Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin also joined our tour to celebrate the school and the community it serves.

Overhead view of a graduation ceremony at Southland College Prep with graduates in maroon gowns lined up along a curved balcony and attendees gathered below.

Group of people standing behind a colorful sign that reads 'Southland Welcomes U of I System Tour' outside a modern building.

Four diverse professionals stand on stage wearing white jackets with red letters, smiling at a formal event.

6th Annual Leadership State Tour
Invested in Illinois

"Partnership is the art of doing more together than anyone can do alone, forging bonds that solve real problems."

U of I System President Tim Killeen

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

Last night, the Obama Presidential Center became a setting for an extraordinary evening of celebration on our 2026 State Tour. We honored changemakers whose work embodies the U of I System's mission and values, and the partnerships celebrated will carry our work into its next chapter.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 23/09/2026

The U of I System continues to expand its presence in Chicago, as we strive to keep Illinois talent in-state. The pathway from Englewood to our universities became clearer today for students at Lindblom Math and Science Academy — a selective enrollment high school recognized for STEM excellence.

People sitting at a table covered with a yellow cloth featuring a seal and motto, engaged in conversation during a formal event.

Three diverse students sitting at a table in a classroom, smiling and engaged during a lecture or discussion.

A group of diverse professionals seated behind a table with yellow and purple cloth, engaged in a lively discussion.

6th Annual Leadership State Tour
Invested in Illinois

"Access and affordability are core commitments for the U of I System. You cannot ask the public to value what it believes it cannot afford or cannot reach."

U of I System President Tim Killeen

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

Economic opportunity. College access. Health equity. Today, these goals were the focus of our tour stop at Kennedy-King College in Englewood. Closing these gaps takes partnership, and working together, the University of Illinois System and Kennedy-King College are leading the way.

The panelists at today's Kennedy-King College tour stop stand in front of University of Illinois System banners and American flags at a formal event.

Man in a suit speaking at a podium during a panel event with seated participants in the background.

Woman in green blazer speaking into a microphone during a seated group discussion at a formal event.

A diverse group of adults engaged in conversation around a table in a conference room setting.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

When higher education and businesses join forces, they’re actively positioning Illinois to lead the next economic transformation. 🤝 Our 2026 Leadership State Tour began at the University Club of Chicago, with a forward-looking conversation exploring the forces reshaping Illinois' economic future.

Our leadership panel seated in front of University of Illinois System and Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce banners during today's tour stop.

Two men in suits warmly greeting each other at a University of Illinois System event inside a grand hall with ornate architecture.

Our leadership panel standing in front of University of Illinois System and Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce banners at today's tour stop.

A University of Illinois System bus parked near an elevated train track in Chicago with skyscrapers in the background.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 22/09/2026

We begin our sixth annual Leadership State Tour this week, traveling from Chicago to Springfield with stops in Peoria and the Metro East. This year's theme, "Invested in Illinois," celebrates the partnerships that connect us to communities across the state and explores new ways to build on them.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 14/09/2026

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees will meet Thursday morning at 8:00 a.m. in Urbana. 🕗 You may follow along with the proceedings live using this link: uis.edu/uislive 🎦

Puffy blue clouds grace the sky over the Alice Campbell Alumni Center Fountain on a sunny summer day.
Photo taken at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign on Friday, July 11, 2025.
(Photo by Fred Zwicky / University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign)

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 11/09/2026

Opening today at the National Veterans Art Museum in Chicago, "Never Forget" examines the memories and lasting impact of the September 11, 2001 attacks on the lives of 25 University of Illinois Chicago alums, faculty, staff, and students. Read more about the exhibit: ow.ly/rNyW50ZMBQs

Photographer Lisa Atwood from UIC Creative and Digital Services, who photographed 25 individuals for the UIC exhibit.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 10/09/2026

Medicaid is not a line item — it's a lifeline for one in four people in Illinois. Changes starting next year could reshape state spending in ways that ripple far beyond healthcare. The Institute of Government and Public Affairs (IGPA) breaks down the fiscal implications: ow.ly/K8Q650ZLZQB

an aerial photo of the Illinois Capitol and surrounding Springfield, Illinois

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 09/09/2026

For the first time, fall enrollment across the University of Illinois System has topped 102,000 — a new system record. 📈 The growth is coming from home: in-state undergraduates are up 4.2%, and Illinois residents now make up nearly 80% of our undergraduate population: ow.ly/psSG50ZLfv8

University of Illinois System
Record Enrollment
102,267

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 31/08/2026

As we welcome students back for the new academic year, our system continues to make big headlines — including the launch of our new Transfer Drive program. Catch up on August's news with Stay Connected! 📚 August edition: ow.ly/HSus50ZHjKy 📩 Subscribe here: ow.ly/yvJ850ZHjKB

A Fu dog at Allerton Park in Monticello, IL, with the caption:

Stay Connected
August 2026
University of Illinois System

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 27/08/2026

The rise of artificial intelligence brings great possibilities for productivity—but also confusion, even fear. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Charles Isbell says that moving forward, we must build AI systems that are both transparent and inspectable: ow.ly/iOwv50ZG8Ek

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Charles L. Isbell, Jr.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 24/08/2026

It's been a whirlwind first two years for the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park (IQMP), and its building momentum has created interest and curiosity into the park's mission and purpose. CEO Harley Johnson explores and explains what the IQMP is—and also what it isn't: ow.ly/yUEo50ZESEo

an artist's rendering of the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Campus

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 18/08/2026

Want to learn more about the current state of quantum computing? 👨🏽‍💻 Join us Thursday morning for our virtual symposium, Quantum Computing and Microelectronics Technology: Driving Innovation in Modern Industry. For the agenda, speaker bios, and free registration: ow.ly/mVfV50ZAWB4

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 13/08/2026

The University of Illinois System is launching Transfer Drive, which provides a full range of support for income-eligible students transferring to its three universities from select Illinois community colleges. 🎓 Learn more: ow.ly/I2UA50ZzrCb

The University of Illinois System TransferDrive

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 10/08/2026

Want to get caught up on what's now and what's next in quantum computing? 👨‍💻 Join the Quantum Computing and Microelectronics Technology: Driving Innovation in Modern Industry Symposium on Thursday, August 20 from 9:00 a.m. to noon CDT. Save your virtual spot here: ow.ly/FlFf50Zy9Yf

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 03/08/2026

July saw big stories come from our system, including the official launch of the nationwide search for our next president, succeeding President Tim Killeen in 2027 after more than a decade of leadership. ☀️ July edition: ow.ly/i7u950ZvNgu 📩 Subscribe here: ow.ly/ejSJ50ZvNgw

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 27/07/2026

The search for the 21st president of the University of Illinois System is officially underway. The Board of Trustees today released the leadership profile, shaped by input from faculty, staff, students, and community members across all three universities: www.uillinois.edu/about/presid...

the three universities of the University of Illinois System

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 13/07/2026

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees will meet Thursday morning at 8:00 a.m. in Champaign. 🕗 You can watch the meeting live by using this link: uis.edu/uislive 🎦

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 10/07/2026

A ChBE Illinois team has developed microparticles which release oxygen bubbles that clean wounds and instrument surfaces more effectively than simple cleaning agents like hydrogen peroxide. 👀 See up-close, microscopic video of the bubbles in action: ow.ly/YSwX50ZmtBf

Cylindrical microparticles with a catalytic coating release tiny oxygen bubbles that coalesce and burst to disrupt stubborn biofilms on contaminated surgical instruments and infected wounds. Image by Yujin Ahn.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 09/07/2026

❓ Did you know that UI Health provides care through more than 1,500,000 patient visits each year? 👨🏽‍⚕️👩🏻‍⚕️ Get even more facts and figures about the U of I System's universities, programs, and people in the 2026 edition of Pocket Facts: go.uillinois.edu/2026PocketFacts

UI Health reports over 1.5 million patient visits across its clinical enterprise, 162,866 Mile Square Health Center patient visits, and 154,285 dental clinic visits.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 01/07/2026

The Institute of Government and Public Affairs (IGPA)'s Small Grant Program catalyzes impactful policy research that addresses Illinois’ challenges, elevating faculty as trusted thought leaders whose work drives change. Our six awarded projects in 2026: igpa.uillinois.edu/research-projects

Statue of Abraham Lincoln in front of the Illinois State Capitol building under a partly cloudy blue sky.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 15/06/2026

Summertime's longer days and hotter temperatures tend to raise air pollution levels in Chicago. A network of 277 monitoring sensors placed across the city by the UIC School of Public Health are collecting publicly-available data to target air-quality hotspots. 🌆Learn more: ow.ly/lpbl50Z7GOw

An air quality sensor mounted on a pole in downtown Chicago

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 11/06/2026

You're invited to attend our presidential search town halls next week at our three universities! These sessions are an opportunity to share your perspective and help inform the search for the next president of the U of I System: www.uillinois.edu/about/presidentia…

a triptych featuring shots of the campuses of the University of Illinois System - Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 09/06/2026

A University of Illinois Springfield epidemiologist and her students are distributing free radon test kits, hosting health education workshops, and connecting Sangamon County residents with lung cancer screenings — because only 1 in 5 at-risk Americans gets screened: ow.ly/UB9P50Z9qHi

A woman holding informational pamphlets at a community event focused on radon risk awareness, with a red table and another person in the background.

"Speaking with community members at libraries and health fairs made me realize how many people were unaware of radon risks."

-Hardika Anghan, UIS student

Graphic showing one filled figure out of five representing the low rate of at-risk Americans receiving lung cancer screenings.

Circular badge with 'FREE RADON TESTS' promoting awareness about cancer screenings.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 04/06/2026

This May, your engaged voices reached Springfield, global partnerships took flight, and the joy of commencement season spread across our campuses. Read more about it in Stay Connected, and subscribe below! 🎓 May edition: ow.ly/Jr8A50Z7Jkn 📩 Subscribe here: ow.ly/ZF8g50Z7Jkm

Stay Connected
May 2026
University of Illinois System

A graduate tossing his graduation cap into the air

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 02/06/2026

We're proud to have relaunched the David Dodds Henry Lecture Series: The Future of Higher Education. The Chicago gathering brought together higher ed leaders and changemakers to explore how to navigate unprecedented times, and featured a keynote from U of Washington President Robert J. Jones.

Two men in suits speaking on stage during a formal event with a blue backdrop and a screen displaying text.

Four professionals seated on stage engaged in a panel discussion with blue curtains and water glasses on side tables.

Audience members seated in a conference room, attentively listening and engaging during a presentation or panel discussion.

Three men in suits stand on a stage with dark blue curtains, the center man holding a glass award between two seated chairs and a small table.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 27/05/2026

University of Illinois Chicago researchers tracked 1,300+ kids in Big Brothers Big Sisters of America for four years and found real results: less violence, less substance use, stronger mental health. Mentoring works: ow.ly/NSQy50Z4ujF

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 26/05/2026

This #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth, system researchers are studying PTSD treatments, music therapy, and veteran support. Here are three making a difference: Urbana-Champaign: ow.ly/lMTi50Z4ign Chicago: ow.ly/p0ky50Z4igm University of Illinois Springfield: ow.ly/Az7f50Z4igl

Steve Maren's team posing at the Beckman Institute

Hip-Hop H.E.A.L.S! founder Jaleel Abdul-Adil

Two soldiers in camouflage gear and helmets enter a dark room, each wearing red armbands on their sleeves

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 20/05/2026

Happy World Bee Day! At Chicago, University of Illinois Springfield, and Urbana-Champaign, our system maintains programs that help local bee populations flourish. 🐝 Because without pollinators, much of the food we rely on every day simply wouldn't exist.

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 19/05/2026

The University of Illinois Board of Trustees will meet Thursday morning at 8:00 a.m. in Champaign. 🕗 You can livestream the proceedings then by using this link: uis.edu/uislive 🎦

The McFarland Memorial Bell Tower on the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 18/05/2026

Biomanufacturing. Economic development. Job creation. Sustainability. The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s iFAB Tech Hub is doing it all — a prime example of the University of Illinois System building Illinois’ future through innovation and partnerships: ifabtechhub.org

Woman in blue work uniform pointing at data on a large monitor in an industrial workspace with machinery in the background

Person wearing gloves pouring liquid from a white bucket into a large stainless steel industrial tank with an open lid

Tall stainless steel fermentation tank with attached pipes and gauges in an industrial lab setting

Technician wearing gloves working on complex industrial machinery inside a factory with yellow safety railings

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 15/05/2026

Today at noon CDT, join U of I System President Tim Killeen for a virtual conversation on our system's role in shaping the future of Illinois. An audience-powered Q-&-A session will follow his presentation. Register for the town hall and submit your questions here: ow.ly/WQ1650YVcxc

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 13/05/2026

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, but wellbeing matters all year long. Across the University of Illinois System, find mental health support for students, faculty, and staff. 💚 Explore resources: ow.ly/EOCl50YYlRV And for anytime crisis support, call or text 988. 📱

A woman sitting on a bench outside looking at her phone

two women smiling while working at a table

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 12/05/2026

Happy International Nursing Day! Across our system, nursing students balance rigorous coursework with hands-on patient care — and when it's over, they mark the end of their undergraduate journey with a pool jump. 🎓🌊 This tradition that began at Chicago has now spread to Urbana and Springfield.

Nursing students in the pool at the University of Illinois Chicago

Two nursing students in the pool at the University of Illinois Springfield

Nursing students in the pool at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 11/05/2026

Last week in Rome, U of I System President Tim Killeen joined global leaders, youth innovators, and the CCOs of Ferrari and Aston Martin at the European Innovation for Sustainability Summit. The takeaway: embrace new technology, move from planning to action, and inspire the next generation.

President Killeen on-stage with a handdrawn-style background screen

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 10/05/2026

Today, we celebrate the mothers who balance more than most people see. The ones who show up fully — for their work, their students, their research, their colleagues — and then go home and show up again. Read more: 🌺https://ow.ly/Vp9i50YWEog 🌼https://ow.ly/agJE50YWEoa 🌷https://ow.ly/1Asn50YWEo6

University of Illinois System

Happy Mother's Day

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 06/05/2026

On Friday, May 15 at noon CDT, join U of I System President Tim Killeen for a virtual town hall that will highlight state priorities, updates on critical legislation, and key opportunities that will fuel our progress, followed by a Q-&-A session. Secure your virtual seat: ow.ly/aHtt50YVcx9

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 04/05/2026

An advocacy-packed April saw our system making impacts both in Washington, D.C. and across the state of Illinois. Catch up on the news with Stay Connected, and subscribe to get it in your inbox every month! 💮 April edition: ow.ly/9SWg50YUHy0 📩 Subscribe here: ow.ly/gN0250YUHy1

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 30/04/2026

The University of Illinois System doesn’t wait for discoveries to happen. It creates them — in labs, clinics, communities, and classrooms across Illinois. 👩‍🔬💡 Discovery doesn’t slow down here. It never has: ow.ly/SuxF50YStmb

Image that shows historical research photo next to high-tech research today

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The University of Illinois System @uofilsystem.bsky.social · 27/04/2026

The Illinois Mexican & Mexican-American Students Initiative (I-MMÁS) will host an online webinar on May 20 focused on the growing field of nutritional neuroscience, and evidence linking cognitive health and good nutrition. 🍎🧠 See the full agenda and register for free: ow.ly/s12X50YQKnl

various food items surrounding a human brain, with a depiction of a strand of DNA and the words "nutrition, microbiota, genetics, brain health"

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