International students celebrate the holidays away from home

On Tuesday, December 23, 50 students representing a handful of cultures gathered at the Butler Housing Commons building on the UIS campus to spend time together, listen to music and try a few new foods during a holiday party coordinated by Jeannie Capranica, acting assistant director of the Diversity Center.

The holiday party and other social opportunities for international students who stay on campus over winter break are written about in an article by the State Journal-Register on December 25, 2008.

Download a PDF of the article
20081225-SJR-InternationalStudents.pdf

Springfield upbeat at news of Governor's arrest

The mood in the capital city was for the most part upbeat when news of Governor Blagojevich's arrest broke on December 9.

UIS associate professor Marcel Yoder was among psychologists asked to explain the irreverent public reaction to such a serious situation. Yoder said that many people "have a tendency to believe the world is a just place. They'e glad the Governor is getting his comeuppance."

Yoder's comments appeared in a December 17, 2008, article in the State Journal-Register.

Download a pdf file
20081217-sjr-BallandChainParty.pdf

Is Illinois really the most corrupt state?

Rod Blagojevich's addition to the state's rather long list of public officials to run afoul of the law has led to the observation that if Illinois isn't the most corrupt state, it's at least "one hell of a competitor." But it turns out that determining which state really holds that title isn't so easy.

In an article published in the December 18, 2008, Kansas City Star, Chris Mooney, UIS professor of Political Science, observes, "It's notoriously difficult to measure political corruption."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081218-KCS-IsIllinoistheMostCorrupt.pdf

Redfield commentary: Citizens must blame themselves

Kent Redfield, UIS emeritus professor of Political Science, filed a commentary with CNN on Gov. Rod Blagojevich and how he reflects the apparent general consensus among Illinoisans that "politics is solely about power, winning, and personal gain."

Download a pdf file of Redfield's commentary, which appeared on Dec. 16, 2008.
20081216-CNN-CommentaryonIllinoisVoters.pdf

Illinois citizens expect corrupt politics

A New York Times article recounting Illinois' long history of corrupt politicians speculates that Illinoisans have a wide-spread acceptance of less-than-ethical behavior by the people they elect to public office.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, observes in the article that, "There is this attitude among politicians, and frankly among citizens, that this is the way things are. Politics is for professionals."

Download a pdf file of the article, published on December 14, 2008.
20081214-NYT-InIllinoisaVirtualExpectation.pdf

Senate contenders unsure how to proceed

There is no shortage of potential candidates interested in filling President-elect Obama's vacant Senate seat, but in the current situation no one is sure exactly how to pursue that interest.

Chris Mooney, UIS professor of Political Science, says it's his opinion that -- if the choice falls to (current) Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn -- the appointment won't go to anyone known to be under consideration by (current) Gov. Rod Blagojevich. "We're making this up as we go along," Mooney observed.

Mooney was interviewed for an Associated Press article that appeared on December 12, 2008.

Download a pdf file
20081212-AP-ContendersNotSure.pdf

State's political culture fosters corruption

Even some of the most cynical observers of Illinois politics were shocked by the behavior that brought about Gov. Rod Blagojevich's arrest on federal corruption charges. But it was the extent of his brazenness that surprised people rather than the arrest itself; many point to Blagojevich as just an extreme example of the state's political culture.

In an article in the December 11, 2008, Christian Science Monitor, Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, says that Illinois tends to "treat politics as a business. It's not about public interest…It's about power and winning and jobs."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081211-CSM-CorruptionWindsThru.pdf

Blagojevich arrest hinders ability to conduct state business

Though Governor Rod Blagojevich gives no sign of stepping down, his ability to fulfill his official duties is seriously in question.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, says that while Blagojevich is governor and can sign bills and issue executive orders, "Nothing he does will be taken on its merits. It will all be: How does this fit into (his) legal problems?"

Redfield's comments were part of an article published in the December 11, 2008, Peoria Journal Star.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081211-PJS-ArrestCripplesGovernor.pdf

Corruption in state government isn't anything new

Governor Rod Blagojevich's arrest on federal corruption charges is just the latest chapter in Illinois' long history of political scandal.

Chris Mooney, UIS professor of Political Science, observed that "Government in Illinois isn't about political ideology or helping people. It's about which…brother-in-law are you going to get a job…because he helped you get into office."

Mooney's comments appeared in a December 10, 2008, posting in the Conservative Libertarian Outpost.

Download a pdf file
20081210-CLO-JustWhatIsNewinIl.pdf

Close ties to governor a liability

Illinois State Rep. Jay Hoffman has been among Gov. Rod Blagojevich's closest political allies and friends. But Hoffman, who serves as chair of the House Transportation Committee, may find he has less clout when the legislature reconvenes.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, notes that while the Governor's friendship had previously been a big asset, "now it's probably a liability."

Redfield's comments appeared in an article published December 10, 2008, in the Olympia, Washington, Olympian.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081210-Olympian-HoffmansClout.pdf

Quinn, Blagojevich don't get along

Though Pat Quinn serves as Lt. Governor, it's no secret that he and Gov. Rod Blagojevich don't like each other. An article that appeared in the December 10, 2008, Huffington Post examined the reasons for this and speculated on Quinn's future should Blagojevich leave office.

In the article, Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Science at UIS, noted that the Quinn-Blagojevich relationship was "a marriage of convenience…their experiences are very different, so they really didn't have a lot to talk about."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081210-HP-QuinnVBlagojevich.pdf

Blagojevich re-election is a "sad commentary"

When Rod Blagojevich was first elected governor in 2002 he presented himself as a reformer; however by the time he was re-elected in 2006 the fact that his administration was under federal investigation was already widely known.

In an article that appeared in the December 9, 2008, Bloomington Pantagraph, Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, notes, "It's a pretty sad commentary that we elected him again."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081209-BP-HistoryRepeats.pdf

Arrest reinforces image of state as corrupt

An Associated Press story filed on December 9, 2008, reports on the growing opinion that the arrest of Gov. Rod Blagojevich has only reinforced Illinois' image as among the most corrupt states in the nation.

In the article, Charles Wheeler III, director of Public Affairs Reporting at UIS, notes that Blagojevich's apparent brazenness "blows everything else out of the water."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081209-AP-ArrestReinforcesImage.pdf

Wheeler: Blagovejich "most incompetent" governor

In an article contrasting the early promise of Gov. Rod Blagojevich with his subsequent performance and, finally, arrest on federal corruption charges, Charles Wheeler III, director of Public Affairs Reporting at UIS, assessed Blagojevich as "the most incompetent governor we've had in the last 50 years."

The Chicago Tribune article was published December 10, 2008.

Download a pdf file
20081210-CT-BlagojevichsPromiseCrashes.pdf

Redfield in NYT: Blagojevich may have tripped over ambition

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, was among those asked to comment on Governor Rod Blagojevich's arrest on federal corruption charges for an article that ran in the December 10, 2008, New York Times.

Redfield noted that while Blagojevich "had clearly come into office believing he was destined for bigger things," he may have tripped up on his own ambition.

"The combination of arrogance and stupidity…is just stunning," said Redfield. "There's no feedback loop or reality check."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081210-NYT-BlagojevichArrest.pdf

Barricaded workers are a symbol

The laid-off workers of now-defunct Republic Widows and Doors who have taken over the Chicago factory and are refusing to leave until they receive assurances of promised severance and vacation pay have put a face to the reality of hard economic times.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, noted in a Chicago Tribune article that, while the case is classic politics, "politicians who… have something to offer are rightly intervening.

"It becomes a metaphor for what's going on in the larger economy," Redfield said.

Download a pdf file of the article, published on December 8, 2008.
20081208-CT-WorkersareaMetaphor.pdf

First-generation college students face challenges

Students who are the first members of their families to attend college can face challenges beyond those confronting other freshmen. At UIS, 11 percent of the current freshmen class belongs to this group.

Read a profile of some of first-generation, college-bound high school seniors that appeared in the December 7, 2008, State Journal-Register
20081207-sjr-SomeCollege-boundKids.pdf

Freshman determined to graduate

Though UIS freshman Christal Luster isn't the first of her siblings to go to college, she is the first to enroll with the intention of graduating and pursuing a career of her own. Everyone else in Christal's immediate family – both parents, her two sisters, and her brother – works for the family company, Clintex Laboratories, near Chicago.

Luster credits the small-campus atmosphere at UIS with helping her make the transition and keep up her resolve.

Read the article that appeared in the December 6, 2008, State Journal-Register
20081206-sjr-FreshmanDetermined.pdf

New search options gaining popularity

Established Internet search engines such as Google may be facing competition from a variety of newer tools such as Blinkx, Grokker, and ChaCha.

In an article in the November 26, 2008, eSchoolNews, UIS OTEL Director Ray Schroeder noted that these new tools can be a boon to students, especially when their searches involve media other than print.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081126-eSN-NewSearchTools.pdf

Constant connection to work is a mixed blessing

With the advent of e-mail, Blackberries, and smart phones, more and more workers find it hard to be "off duty."

An article in the November 24, 2008, State Journal-Register quotes Keith Burton, assistant professor and chair of Psychology at UIS, who notes that "employees need time to rest in order to be productive.

"We're not built to be constant working machines," he said.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081124-SJR-WiredWorld.pdf

Obama discusses massive stimulus package

At his press conference yesterday, President-Elect Barack Obama discussed plans for economic recovery and emphasized the need to pass a massive stimulus package shortly after he takes office.

In an interview with Chicago Public Radio, Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of political science at UIS, remarked that Congress historically likes to take its time in debating how to dole out large sums of money, so passing such complex legislation early in a presidency will be no small task.

Download a PDF file featuring Redfield's radio quotes
20081125-ChiPubRadio-ObamaStimulusPackage.pdf

Wired world means rarely leaving work

Because about 60 percent of the workforce uses the Internet or e-mail for their jobs, almost half of them also work from home, checking their e-mail on weekends and sick days and logging in while on vacation.

Clinical psychologist Keith Burton, head of the psychology department at UIS, says that while some can manage with constant connection to work, most people need to recharge and take a break to be productive.

Burton's quotes were featured in an article in the November 25, 2008, State Journal-Register. Download a PDF of the file
20081125-SJR-WiredWorkers.pdf

Students enjoy living in LRH service wing

Opportunities for community service abound for residents in the Leadership for Life Service Wing in UIS' Lincoln Residence Hall. These first- and second-year students are finding that volunteering not only helps them make connections, it changes they way they look at a variety of things.

An article in the November 17, 2008, "Voice" section of the State Journal-Register looks at the LLSW and some of the residents.

Download a pdf file
20081117-sjr-LearningtoLead.pdf

Campus Town may be moving closer to reality

With the BOT approval of UIS' updated Campus Master Plan, the development of a Campus Town, to be located on the west side of campus outside the ring road, has moved a step closer to becoming a reality.

WCFN reporter Blake Wood posted a report November 14, 2008, on MyCFN News.

Download a pdf file
20081114-wcfn-CampusTown.pdf

Corruption charges taint state's mood

With an Illinois senator poised to become President of the United States and centennial celebrations for the birth of Abraham Lincoln about to begin, the atmosphere in the state's capital should be buoyant. But allegations of government corruption are rampant.

An article in the November 24, 2008, Newsweek discusses the cloud hanging over Illinois politics and quotes UIS Professor Emeritus Kent Redfield as noting that, while the state has produced such iconic figures as Lincoln and Adlai Stevenson, an air of "let's make a deal" has always been "pretty pervasive" in Illinois.

Download a pdf file of the article
22081124-NW-CorruptionintheLandofLincoln.pdf

Who will Governor choose?

President-elect Barack Obama has resigned his Senate seat and it's up to Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich to choose a successor. Speculation is rife as the list of potential nominees grows longer.

An article in the November 13, 2008, New York Times quotes Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of political science: "Compared to everything else, this is good publicity."

Download a pdf file of the article
20081113-NYT-BlagojevichPicksSuccessor.pdf

Scholarship to be named after Kent Redfield

UIS Professor Emeritus Kent Redfield is getting a scholarship fund named after him. The Kent Redfield Scholarship will be awarded annually to a student based on merit and financial need.

Redfield, a leader for years in research into campaign contributions in Illinois, retired September 1 after 29 years at UIS, but he still remains highly involved with the university and plans to teach a class per semester starting in the new year.

The news of his scholarship fund appears in a column in the September 13, 2008, issue of the State Journal-Register. Download a PDF file of the column
20081113-SJR-KentRedfieldScholarship.pdf

Sheriff slashes bill to Innocence Project

After an article ran on Sunday, November 9, in the State Journal-Register about the Springfield sheriff's office charging $700 for copies of CDs and audio tapes to the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project, the office hand-delivered a new bill for $37.78.

The CDs and tapes are from police interviews in a case the Project is investigating involving the conviction of Thomas McMillen of murder in the 1989 stabbing death of Melissa Koontz.

Download a PDF file from the November 11, 2008 article from the State Journal-Register
20081112-SJR-SheriffSlashesProjectBill.pdf

Finding the right college can be difficult

High school students looking for the college that fits them best can find the process intimidating. An article in the Voice section of the November 11, 2008, State Journal-Register outlined the admissions process at a community college (Lincoln Land), a public university (UIS), and a private one (Illinois College in Jacksonville).

Assistant Director of Admissions Kathryn Kleeman spoke about the advantages UIS has to offer.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081111-sjr-FindingtheRightCollege.pdf

Election brings little change to state government

While Illinois voters answered the call for change in government at the national level, little changed at the Statehouse as a result of the November 4 elections.

Chris Mooney, UIS professor of Political Studies, noted, "You can't say this was transformational."

Charles Wheeler, professor and director of Public Affairs Reporting at UIS, said, "My guess is that most voters hold their local lawmaker in higher esteem than they do the legislature as an institution."

Read the article that appeared in the November 9, 2008, Daily Herald.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081109-CDH-VotersPushChange.pdf

"Cloud 9" not subtle

Caryl Churchill's play "Cloud 9" deals with the politics of sexuality and sexual identity and relies heavily on cross-gender casting and role-doubling. The results are not subtle.

"Cloud 9" opened UIS Theatre's 2008-2009 season on November 7 and the State Journal-Register's Brian Mackey was there.

His review appeared in the November 8, 2008, SJ-R.

Download a pdf file
20081108-sjr-TakeBrazenCloud9.pdf

Obama candidacy shines a light on Illinois legislature

Barack Obama's background in the Illinois Senate has focused more national attention than usual on the Illinois legislature and Illinois politics, as an article in the November 2, 2008, State Journal-Register reports.

UIS Professor of Public Affairs Reporting Charles Wheeler, a former newsman who covered the Statehouse for many years, weighs in on what Obama's record of voting "present" really means.

Professor of Political Science Chris Mooney notes that he had expected Obama to face much more and much harsher criticism because of the current investigation into charges of corruption in Illinois government and the federal conviction of one-time Obama fundraiser Tony Rezko.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081102-sjr-ObamaDrawsSpotlighttoIllLegislature.pdf

Campus hosts "Battle of the Brains" competition

On November 1 the UIS campus was the host site for a round of competition in an international programming contest – the 33rd annual ACM International Collegiate Programming Contest – also known as the Global "Battle of the Brains" Software Competition.

Reporter John Reynolds was on hand to profile the event. His account appeared in the November 2, 2008, State Journal-Register.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081102-sjr-BattleoftheBrains.pdf

Redfield sees local races as a "way to send a message"

Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Science, noted that local races are the best way for voters "to send a message" to the leaders of their respective political parties.

His comments appeared in an article on the impact local races can have on people's everyday lives that appeared in the November 3, 2008, Chicago Daily Herald.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081103-CDH-DontSkipUndercard.pdf

Redfield discusses Con-Con question

Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Science, talked about the "strange bedfellows" that have resulted in the upcoming vote on whether Illinois should hold a new constitutional convention.

The interview was aired on Chicago public radio station WBEZ 91.5 FM on Monday, November 3.

Listen to the interview

Berman: Community must make the most of economic opportunities

In an "In My View" column appearing in the November 1, 2008, State Journal-Register, UIS Provost Harry Berman outlined the goals of the Continuum of Learning, an initiative of the Greater Springfield Chamber of Commerce, United Way of Central Illinois, and Sangamon Country Community Foundation. Berman chairs the Continuum's Steering Committee.

The intention, said Berman is a "community commitment to seeing that the highest possible proportion of children, adolescents, and young adults are progressing successfully through each stage of development and are poised to succeed and to contribute to the region's economy."

Download a pdf file of the column
20081101-sjr-BermanonMaximizingEconomicOpportunity.pdf

White tells campuses to prepare for tough times

In a recent campuswide memo, U of I President Joseph White said that he has told leaders at the three campuses to prepare for tough economic times over the next year and a half. White said the university should expect to face possibilities such as reduced state support, students with greater need for financial assistance, and leaving vacant positions unfilled.

Download a pdf file of an article from the October 28, 2008, Chicago Tribune
20081028-CT-PrezsaysLeanTimesAhead.pdf

Student trustees ask top administrators to freeze salaries

The three student representatives to the Board of Trustees have proposed that administrators who earn $150,000 or more annually agree to voluntarily freeze their salaries for two years.

While the savings this would realize would probably not be significant, the students say that, in the face of tough economic times, the move would send a message to the entire university community that "we're all in this together." UIS student trustee Craig McFarland says he plans to raise the issue when the Board meets in Springfield on November 13.

Download a pdf file of an article that appeared in the October 28, 2008, Champaign News Gazette
20081028-CNG-StudentTrusteesaysFreezeSalaries.pdf

Wheeler: Lawrence "one of the best"

When Mike Lawrence announced that he was returning to journalism after 11 years at the Paul Simon Public Policy Institute at Southern Illinois University-Carbondale, including four years as director, his colleagues around the state were quick to praise the decision as well as the man.

UIS Public Affairs Reporting director Charles Wheeler III, who worked with Lawrence when both were Statehouse reporters, said, "I think that Mike's one of the best reporters I ever met," adding that Lawrence was respected by both Republicans and Democrats because he "took the time to understand the issues."

Download a pdf file of the article that appeared in the October 26, 2008, edition of The Southern
20081026-TS-LawrenceReturnstohisRoots.pdf

Redfield on the importance of fundraising

With Illinois Senate President Emil Jones stepping down in January, a number of state senators are positioning themselves to replace him. The ability to raise funds is seen as an important part of that process, for a variety of reasons.

Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Science at UIS, noted that it's "all about creating relationships or a sense of obligation." Redfield's comments were part of an article that appeared in the October 21, 2008, Chicago Tribune.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081021-CT-MoneyaFactorinRaceforSenatePresident.pdf

UIS receives national award for online education

UIS received the 2008 Gomory Award for Quality Education from the Sloan Consortium. The award recognizes UIS' innovative work in the continuous process of assuring excellence in its online teaching and learning initiatives.

OTEL Director Ray Schroeder noted that the Gomory Award is "one of the highest honors to be granted" by the Consortium.

Download an article from the October 20, 2008, State Journal-Register
200081020-SJR-UISWinsGomoryAward.pdf

UIS has more to do to finalize move into NCAA

Now that UIS has been invited to join the Great Lakes Valley Conference of the NCAA, the university will need to take certain steps before it can become a full member.

An article in the October 20, 2008, State Journal-Register looks at the requirements and what they might mean to the campus.

Download the article
20081020-SJR-UISneed2MtoPlay.pdf

Mooney says different motives may be behind House move to cut veto session

The Illinois House of Representatives has cancelled half of its November veto session and the state Senate may do the same. Legislators say this is because they have already dealt with a number of issues during many special sessions over the summer.

Christopher Mooney, UIS professor of Political Science, says that while this is true, the reason may also have something to do with the troubled relationship between Gov. Rod Blagojevich and House Speaker Michael Madigan.

An article that appeared in the October 14, 2008, Peoria Journal Star examined the situation.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081014-PJS-HouseCutsVeto.pdf

UIS move into NCAA means change

UIS officially joined the NCAA Division II, Great Lakes Valley Conference, on October 8, 2008.

In an article that appeared in the State Journal-Register on October 9, Prairie Stars coaches talked about what the move meant for their teams.

Download a pdf file of the article
20081009-SJR-CoachesGladtobeinGLVC.pdf

Veselenak is community resource for mushroom hunters

Jim Veselenak, UIS associate professor of Clinical Laboratory Science and Public Health, is also an expert on mushrooms.

Illinois Times correspondent Julianne Glatz talked with Veselenak for an IT article on hunting wild mushrooms that was posted on September 25, 2008.

Download a pdf copy of the article
20080925-IT-ForagingforFungi.pdf

Redfield sees McCain decision to suspend campaign as a ploy

Opinions differ on Sen. John McCain's suspension of his Presidential campaign to return to Washington while Congress considered the administration's plan to resolve the economic crisis.

In an article that appeared in the September 25, 2008, Galesburg Register Mail, UIS Professor Emeritus of Political Science Kent Redfield observed, "His implication is, I care more about this issue than Obama does, and I'm above politics….The irony is, you have a political ploy…to show he's above politics."

Download a pdf file of the article
20080925-GRM-PoliticsorStatesmanship.pdf

White will seek independence for Global Campus

The U of I's Global Campus, launched in January, is so far showing significantly smaller enrollments and fewer course offerings than originally planned. University President B. Joseph White says that, to speed up development of degree programs, he would like to turn the Global Campus into an independent, accredited university and he intends to put the proposal before the BOT in November.

A report on this initiative was posted by the Associated Press on September 25, 2008.

Download a pdf copy
20080925-AP-GlobalCampusFlounders.pdf

Redfield sees campaign suspension as a political ploy

Opinions differ on Sen. John McCain's recent decision to suspend his Presidential campaign in order to return to Washington while Congress considers the Bush administration's proposal to mend the economic crisis.

In an article that appeared in the September 24, 2008, State Journal-Register, UIS Professor Emeritus of Political Science Kent Redfield observes, "The irony is, you have a political ploy from the McCain camp to show he's above politics."

Download a pdf file of the article
20080924-SJR-PoliticsorStatesmanship.pdf

UIS part of the "miracle" at Emiquon

Chicago Sun Times reporter Dale Bowman toured The Nature Conservancy's Emiquon Preserve in late summer and found himself "stunned" by the results that have been achieved in such a short time. Much of that success he credits to the "clout" of The Nature Conservancy and the "intellectual strength" of UIS. His article about the experience appeared in the September 21, 2008, Sun Times Outdoors section.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080921-CST-CreatingaMiracle.pdf

Redfield: Comment about draft is a "third rail"

At a recent public forum in Peoria, Colleen Callahan, Democratic candidate for a seat in the 18th Congressional District, suggested that she could support a reinstatement of the military draft as "the fairest way for us to begin to rebuild our military." Her comment touched off an immediate controversy, much as her opponent, Aaron Schock, had done earlier when he stated that the U.S. should sell nuclear missiles to Taiwan.

State Journal-Register columnist Bernard Schoenburg discussed the situation at length with Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Studies, for an article that appeared on September 14, 2008.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080914-SJR-CallahanHitsHotButton.pdf

More students living on campus

UIS' enrollment figures for the 2008 fall semester showed an increase in undergraduate students and the most-ever (1,050) living on campus.

Chancellor Ringeisen spoke with reporter Chris Dettro about student demographics for an article that appeared in the September 15, 2008, State Journal-Register.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080915-SJR-MoreStudentsLivingOnCampus.pdf

Gas prices affect athletics, too

An article in the September issue of the Springfield Business Journal discussed the impact of rising gas prices on local businesses. Correspondent Raegan Hennemann also spoke with UIS Athletic Director Rodger Jehlicka about its effect on college sports. Jehlicka noted that UIS coaches have several options to avoid going over budget. Download a pdf file of the article:
20080900-SBJ-AffectofGasPrices.pdf

LA Tech joins consortium founded by Schroeder and Oakley

Louisiana Tech is one of seven charter members of the New Century Learning Consortium, a group founded by Ray Schroeder, director of UIS' Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning, and Burks Oakley II, founding director of University of Illinois Online.

The consortium was designed to assist universities in implementing high quality, large-scale online and blended learning programs.

An article published in the September 10, 2008, Monroe, Louisiana, News-Star described the organization and quoted Schroeder, who noted that the first meeting, held at UIS in July, “enabled us to formalize our relationships and begin collaborations in the development of online and blended learning initiatives that will span the country."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080910-LNS-LATechJoinsConsortium.pdf

UIS receives grant for mentoring program

On September 10 the Women for Women initiative of the Sangamon County Community Foundation awarded its first-ever grant of $10,000 to a joint mentoring program of the UIS Volunteer and Civic Engagement Center and UIS Athletics.

In the Girl to Girl DreamSpeakers Program, UIS female athletes will serve as mentors to approximately 120 female students in grades 8 through 10 in Springfield public schools.

An article in the September 11, 2008, State Journal-Register profiled the award and related events UIS is planning.

Download a pdf file of the article.

20080911-SJR-WomensGroupAnnouncesAwardforMentoringProgram.pdf

Governor back in the spotlight

After months of keeping a relatively low profile, Gov. Rod Blagojevich is once again making public appearances and talking with reporters.

In an article that appeared in the September 8, 2008, Chicago Tribune, Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Studies, speculated that the reason for the Governor's return to the public eye may be that he's feeling less pressure now that the trial of his friend and fundraiser Tony Rezko is over.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080908-CT-GovernorNotShyingAway.pdf

Documentary by Dave Antoine to be shown

"Springfield Had No Shame," a documentary by UIS staff member Dave Antoine, will be shown on September 15 as part of the campus' series of events commemorating the city's 1908 race riot.

In an article that appeared in the September 8, 2008, State Journal-Register, reporter Pete Sherman talked with Antoine about his experiences producing the film.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080908-SJR-DocumentarybyDaveAntoine.pdf

Redfield on Governor's third term

On August 29, 2008, Chicago Newsradio WBBM reported on Governor Rod Blagojevich's hint that he might seek a third term. The report cited UIS Professor Emeritus of Political Studies Kent Redfield's assessment that there would be "little enthusiasm" should the Governor decide to run for reelection in 2010.

Download a pdf file of the report

20080829-WBBM-Blagojevich3rdTerm.pdf

Campus Town proposal will be submitted again

The master plan that UIS will submit to the Board of Trustees in November will once again include plans for a commercial "campus town" development on 80 acres on the west side of campus.

The idea aroused little interest from businesses when it was first proposed several years ago. However Chancellor Ringeisen is confident that several factors, including a much larger number of residential students, have combined to ensure success this time.

Tim Landis' column in the August 31, 2008, State Journal-Register outlined the revamped plan.

Download a pdf file of the column

20080831-SJR-CampusTown.pdf

Innocence Project asks court to re-examine evidence in 1989 murder

The Downstate Illinois Innocence Project at UIS is expected to ask a Springfield circuit court to allow evidence from the 1989 murder of Melissa Koontz to be re-examined, using technologies such as DNA testing that were not widely available at the time of the trial.

One of the men serving a life sentence for the crime, Tom McMillen, has repeatedly denied any involvement. Director of Investigations Bill Clutter and students Priyanka Deo and Sarah Wellard say they have statements from some key witnesses who now claim not to have told the truth during the original investigation. The three have spent several weeks presenting their evidence to local authorities.

The August 31, 2008, State Journal-Register published an article about the case and the Innocence Project's role in re-examining McMillen's conviction.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080831-SJR-InnProjWants1989MurderRe-examined.pdf

UIS ranked among the best

In its first year of eligibility, UIS was named to U.S. News and World Reports' list of America's Best Colleges: once as best public university (master's category) in the state, and again as fourth best university in the same category in the Midwest.

On August 22, 2008, the State Journal-Register ran an article profiling the honor.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080822-SJR-UISAmongUSNewsBest.pdf

Blagojevich keeps low profile

Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich is keeping a low profile as far as Illinois Senator and Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama is concerned.

In an article that appeared in the Rockford Register Star on August 21, 2008, UIS Professor Emeritus Kent Redfield notes that one big reason is Blagojevich's seemingly close ties to Tony Rezko, who is awaiting sentencing on his federal corruption conviction.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080821-RRS-BlagojevichSitsOut.pdf

State senators vie for Jones' spot

Members of the Illinois Senate are already jockeying to be in position to fill Emil Jones' spot as Senate President when he retires.

Chris Mooney, UIS Professor of Political Studies, is quoted in an article published August 22, 2008, by the Sun Times News Group. The article discusses senators who have expressed an interest, as well as why the senate presidency is so important.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080822-STNG-NextSenatePrez.pdf

Green roof installed on Founders Hall

On August 14 and 15, 2008, workers installed a green roof, one of the first in the area, on Founders Hall. The structure is a key element in the campus' goal to save energy and increase sustainability.

On August 15 the State Journal-Register ran an article that profiled the new roof and outlined some of the campus' other efforts toward becoming more environmentally friendly.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080815-SJR-GreenRoofatUIS.pdf

Wheeler says it's "no surprise" Jones is retiring

Illinois Senate President Emil Jones has announced that he will retire when his current term expires in January 2009.

"I can't say I'm surprised," observed UIS' Public Affairs Reporting Director Charles Wheeler III in an article that appeared in the August 18, 2008, Daily Herald. Wheeler noted that Jones' close alliance with an unpopular governor has been an issue.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080818-DJ-EmilJonestoRetire.pdf

Alcohol 101

Many college students, away from parental oversight for the first time, indulge their new-found freedoms by drinking too much, too often.

The August 12, 2008, State Journal-Register ran an article that took a look at the problem and how some campuses are responding to it. Valerie Scarbrough, an alcohol and drug prevention counselor at UIS, was among those interviewed.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080812-SJR-Drinking%20101.pdf

Early morning star party a success

Nearly two dozen people attended a special version of a UIS Star Party, held August 13 at the Emiquon Nature Preserve near Havana, even though it began at 3:30 a.m.

Assistant Professor of Astronomy/Physics John Martin led the program, which focused on the Perseids Meteor Shower. Emiquon Field Station Director/Associate Professor of Biology Mike Lemke and staff from the Nature Conservancy were also on hand to talk about the preserve's return to its natural river floodplain state.

Participants were encouraged to stay and watch the day begin on the marshland.

Brenda Rothert, reporter for the Peoria Journal-Star, attended. Download her article

20080813-PSJ-LookontheBrightSide.pdf

Stargazing at Emiquon

UIS' Emiquon Field Station is hosting an early morning program that will combine an opportunity for star-gazing with the chance to watch as the marsh creatures wake up and begin a new day.

The August 6, 2008, Canton Daily Ledger carried a notice of the event.

20080806-CDL-StargazingatEmiquon.pdf

Redfield says method used to redraw county districts was good

Two maps suggesting possible redistricting if membership of the Sangamon County Board is reduced from 29 to 15 are drawing criticism from a number of constituencies. However Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, notes that the criteria used to determine the district boundaries was correct.

Read the article that appeared in the August 3, 2008, State Journal-Register.

20080803-SJR-MapsofPossibleCoBdDistricts.pdf

WUIS to air special programs commemorating 1908 riot

On August 6, 7, and 8, WUIS will air special original programs in observance of the 100th anniversary of the Springfield race riot. The segments were produced by WUIS reporter Jenna Dooley.

Read the article from the August 3, 2008, State Journal-Register.

20080803-SJR-WUISCoverageof1908Riot.pdf

Must you tell employers if you earned a degree online?

The "Mr. Know-It-All" column in the July 21, 2008, Wired Magazine addresses the question of whether job candidates are obliged to tell potential employers that their degrees were earned through an online program.

Ray Schroeder, director of UIS' Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning, supplies part of the answer: "On transcripts, we don't designate when a class is online or face-to-face."

Download a pdf of the column

20080721-WM-MentionOnlineDegree.pdf

Wheeler says loading Obama with state's political baggage is unfair

Illinois senator and Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama has been a Chicago resident for nearly 25 years, and some observers wonder how much his campaign will be tainted by the city's reputation for seedy politics and the state's overall political history.

An article in the July 20, 2008, CQ Weekly quotes Charles Wheeler, director of Public Affairs Reporting at UIS, on the subject. Wheeler says that linking Obama with Illinois' political climate isn't fair: "People who have a more sophisticated knowledge of Chicago politics will realize that Obama is not a machine hack."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080720-CQW-ObamaNotChicagoHack.pdf

U of I employees to get raises

The July 22, 2008, State Journal-Register reported on a campuswide memo from UIS Chancellor Richard Ringeisen stating that U of I employees would be receiving pay raises averaging 1.5 percent. The raises are merit-based and will be funded through tuition, state money, and internal reallocations.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080722-SJR-UofIPayHikes.pdf

UIS' Emiquon Field Station an asset to area teachers, students

The UIS Field Station located at the Nature Conservancy's Emiquon Preserve near Havana is providing area teachers and students with unique hands-on learning opportunities.

Mike Lemke, UIS associate professor of biology and field station director, noted that the facility "allows us access to an incredible restoration project and natural setting that would not otherwise be possible."

An article that appeared in the July 17, 2008, Canton Daily Ledger profiled the experiences of one teacher, Kristy Boggs from Spoon River College, who has been bringing students in her field ecology classes to Emiquon since 2006.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080717-CDL-EmiquonLivingLab.pdf

Innocence Project among groups hurt by state budget cuts

Gov. Rod Blagojevich's proposed $1.4 billion in budget cuts will have dire consequences for many organizations in the state that provide critical social services, including the Downstate Illinois Innocence Project at UIS.

An article in the July 14, 2008, Peoria Journal Star quotes co-director Larry Golden as saying that while the project stands to lose a small amount compared to other groups, the state money is nevertheless a vital part of its funding. "This is really a very critical time…because there's no other group that has it as a significant part of its work," said Golden.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080714-PJS-StateBudgetCutsHurt.pdf

Oldfield is author of study on socioeconomic status and admission decisions

An article in the July 10, 2008, Daily Texan reported on a study conducted by Kenneth Oldfield, UIS professor emeritus of Public Administration.

Oldfield found that while schools are federally mandated to evaluate applicants to graduate programs based on race and ethnicity, few institutions also consider an applicant's economic status.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080710-DT-StudyonSocioeconomicStatus.pdf

Illinois Issues is among Chicago Tribune's favorites

Illinois Issues has been selected as one of 50 favorite magazines by the Chicago Tribune. The list appears in the Tempo section of the July 9, 2008, newspaper.

Download a pdf file of the list

20080709-CT-50Favorites.pdf

Schroeder quoted in article on gas prices' effect on online education

As the cost of gasoline goes up, so does the number of students enrolling in online courses.

Ray Schroeder, director of UIS' Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning, was among a number of educators who commented on the subject for an article that appeared in the July 8, 2008, Chronicle of Higher Education.

Schroeder noted that colleges and universities across the country are getting requests for online courses, with students specifically mentioning the cost of gas as a factor.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080708-CHE-GasPricesDriveStudentstoOnlineCourses.pdf

Phillips helps Chicago school district in consolidation talks

When a group of parents and school officials in west Chicago met to discuss combining a high school and its elementary feeder schools into a single system, William Phillips, UIS associate professor of Educational Leadership, was on hand to help them examine the implications of such a move.

Phillips is a recognized authority on the topic. He stressed to the audience that they need a "base of information" on which to make their decision.

An article in the July 8, 2008, Chicago Daily Herald reported on the meeting.

Download a pdf file of that article

20080708-CDH-SchoolFeederDistrictsTalk.pdf

Computer Science grads found "Girls Tech"

After listening to a presentation on the dwindling number of women in computer science fields, Nina Milbauer and Lori Kelley, information technology instructors at Madison (Wisconsin) Area Technical College, were inspired to create Girls Tech, a summer camp where girls in grades 6 through 9 learn about the possibilities open to them in a variety of technical professions.

Both Milbauer and Kelley earned master's degrees in UIS' online Computer Science program.

MATC recently hosted its second Girls Tech program and Ted Mims, chair of UIS' Computer Science department, was among the representatives from other institutions who visited Madison to observe. "You could actually see the excitement in (the girls') faces as they learned and they wanted to do more and more," said Mims.

An article in the July 1, 2008, Madison Capital Times profiled the program.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080701-MCT-GirlsTech.pdf

WUIS cuts two positions

Public radio WUIS has eliminated two part-time news anchor positions as part of efforts to address "ongoing internal deficits" at the station.

In a June 25, 2008, article in the Springfield State Journal-Register, General Manager Bill Wheelhouse said the move was in no way performance-related: "I'm really trying to get our budget in check." He said the cuts will save money without affecting programs.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080625-SJR-WUISCuts.pdf

Redfield says Governor's tour of flooded areas helpful

Gov. Rod Blagojevich stepped back into the public eye to visit flooded communities along the Mississippi River recently and to take a turn filling sandbags in Pike County. Area residents greeted Blagojevich with smiles and handshakes, a change of pace for the embattled Governor.

Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Science at UIS, noted that appearances such as these are reminders of Blagojevich's role as the state's leader and also help let people know that officials are aware of their problems. "You can't look bad out showing concern for disaster victims," he said.

Redfield's comments appeared in an article that ran in the June 20, 2008, Peoria Journal Star.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080620-PJS-FloodsBoostBlagojevich.pdf

Mooney quoted in article on Obama's ability to win in rural areas

As a new member of the Illinois Senate, Barack Obama began trying to forge connections with voters in the southern part of the state; the results were mixed. Today he is the apparent Democratic presidential candidate, and some in the party are still concerned about his ability to win over voters in largely rural and blue collar areas.

In an article that appeared in the June 15, 2008, Washington Post, UIS Professor of Political Science Chris Mooney noted that one reason Obama has had an impact in southern Illinois is his constituent service.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080615-WP-RuralIllandObamasElectability.pdf

Wheeler thinks impeachment is unlikely

Speculation on the possibility that Gov. Rod Blagojevich will be impeached is widespread; however Charles Wheeler, UIS Professor and Director of Public Affairs Reporting, thinks that won't happen.

Wheeler says, in his opinion, the Governor should be more concerned about the federal investigation into corruption in Illinois government. Wheeler's comments appeared in an article published in the June 13, 2008, Ottawa Times.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080613-OT-ImpeachmentNotCertain.pdf

Redfield sees irony in campaign contributions bill

While the Illinois legislature unanimously passed a bill banning campaign contributions from those who hold large contracts with the state, Gov. Rod Blagojevich has yet to sign the bill into law, saying a lot of work remains to be done on it.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, said it is ironic that the man whom many see as a prime of example of why the bill is necessary is the one who is expected to sign it into law.

Redfield's comments appeared in an article in the Dekalb Daily Chronicle on June 15, 2008.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080615-DDC-ContributionBanNotDoneDeal.pdf

Redfield says impeachment memo might help Governor

Many Illinois lawmakers say they see House Speaker Michael Madigan's impeachment memo as "posturing" and a distraction from their efforts to balance the state budget.

Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Science at UIS, says that the memo could actually end up helping Gov. Blagojevich. "It helps the governor to say the speaker is out to get me and he's the one causing the problems," Redfield noted in an article that appeared in the June 12, 2008, West Frankfort Daily American.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080612-WFDA-MemoMayHelpGov.pdf

Redfield calls memo "out of character"

The leaked memo from Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan's staff instructing candidates to call for the impeachment of Gov. Rod Blagojevich may in fact have weakened Madigan's position in his long-standing conflict with the Governor.

"It was pretty heavy-handed and out of character," noted Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, in an article in St. Louis Today.com. The article ran on June 12, 2008.

Download a pdf file

20080612-SLT-MemoFalloutContinues.pdf

Author finds inspiration in Brookens' oral history collection

Melinda McDonald, of Springfield, is the author of Water and Fire, a work of historical fiction set during the city's 1908 race riot.

When she was researching the book, one of McDonald's principal sources was the oral history collection housed in the archives at Brookens Library at UIS. "Those were very, very helpful," she noted.

An article about McDonald and her book appeared in the June 9, 2008, Mattoon Journal Gazette/Charleston Times-Courier.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080609-JGTC-AuthorUsesOralHistoryCollection.pdf

Wheeler quoted in article on "unconstitutional" budget

Illinois' new budget increases state spending without increasing revenue and is therefore unconstitutional, according to Gov. Rod Blagojevich. While the Governor has not vetoed the budget, he has announced his intention to call legislative leaders together to resume work on it.

In an article in the June 3, 2008, Harrisburg Daily Register, UIS Director of Public Affairs Reporting Charles Wheeler said he could not recall another such instance in which legislators had so"deliberately and publicly approved an unbalanced budget."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080603-HDR-UnbalancedBudget.pdf

Redfield says ethics bill is a "historic opportunity"

Gov. Blagojevich has indicated that he may not sign the new ethics bill recently passed by the General Assembly because it doesn't go far enough. However, many observers are questioning his motives for refusing to sign the bill, which passed both the Senate and the House by large majorities.

An article published in the June 8, 2008, Chicago Tribune quotes Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, who notes that the bill presents "a historic opportunity to eliminate one of the major sources of corruption in Illinois politics."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080608-CT-EthicsBillLoomsLarge.pdf

Redfield offers tips for citizen lobbyists

When it comes to lobbying with state legislators, ordinary citizens can often have an advantage over the professionals. However there are a number of things people can do to present their ideas more effectively.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, was among the political observers to offer some tips in an article that appeared June 5, 2008, in Medill Reports.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080605-MR-LobbyingIsntJustforPros.pdf

Wheeler sees no "win-win situation" for Republicans

State Republicans are hoping to gain some political advantage in the wake of Democratic fundraiser Antoin Rezko's recent conviction on corruption charges and the ongoing federal investigations into the administration of Democratic Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

However an article that appeared in the June 6, 2008, Chicago Daily Herald quoted UIS Director of Public Affairs Reporting Charles Wheeler as noting that this is "not totally a win-win situation" for Republicans.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080606-CDH-GOPlooksforpoliticalmileage.pdf

Redfield says Rezko conviction may mean trouble for others

Now that Antoin Rezko has been convicted in federal court on multiple counts including mail and wire fraud and aiding and abetting bribery, speculation is increasing on what implications that may hold for Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich and, to a lesser extent, for Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama.

In an article in the June 5, 2008, St. Louis Today.com, Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Science, says there is no question that U.S. Attorney Patrick Fitzgerald intends to bargain with Rezko over sentencing in exchange for his help in indicting Blagojevich.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080605-STLT-RezkoConvicted.pdf

Redfield: Obama may suffer "collateral damage" from Rezko ties

With the corruption trial of former political fundraiser Antoin Rezko ending in a conviction, the Republican Party has increased its efforts to publicize Rezko's links to Illinois Senator and Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.

In an article in the June 4, 2008, Chicago Daily Herald, UIS Professor Emeritus of Political Science Kent Redfield noted that while nothing in the case directly related to the Senator, "There will certainly, though, be an effort by Republicans to define Obama as just another corrupt Chicago politician."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080604-CDH-GOPExploitRezko.pdf

Mooney notes legislative session didn't accomplish much

In a report from the Statehouse reviewing what passed or didn't pass during this legislative session, UIS Professor of Political Science Chris Mooney notes that "there wasn't a lot accomplished."

The article appeared on June 5, 2008, in St. Louis Today.com.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080605-STLT-GovLegisBlameEachOther.pdf

Mooney thinks state won't see much presidential campaigning

Political observers say that Illinoisans shouldn’t expect to see much campaigning by either side in the upcoming Presidential race as it is already nearly a given that the state will go to favorite son Barack Obama.

An article in the June 3, 2008, Galesburg Register-Mail presented observations and predictions from several pundits, including UIS Professor of Political Science Chris Mooney.

Mooney noted that the state has been "moving pretty heavily" toward the Democrats in recent presidential elections. "I think Illinois would have been out of it even if Senator Clinton had won (the nomination)," he said.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080603-GRM-ObamaHasIllinois.pdf

UIS ranks high in survey of online degrees

UIS' departments of Computer Science and Management Information Systems are among the top online master's degree programs in the nation, according to a new survey completed by GetEducated.com.

A news release issued by PR Web on May 29, 2008, presents the results of the survey.

Download a pdf file of the release

20080529-PRW-BestOnlineDegrees.pdf

UIS' new Japanese garden noted in blog

The campus' Japanese garden, dedicated on May 16, was mentioned in the Hewn and Hammered blog "Japanese Gardens in the US" posted on May 27, 2008. The garden is located on the south side of the Public Affairs Center.

Download a pdf file of the blog

20080527-HH-JapaneseGarden.pdf

Materials from UIS Archives to be part of State Museum project

As part of the ongoing Illinois Oral History Project, researchers from the Illinois State Museum are scouring the state to record and preserve "the back roads" of its agricultural history.

Dozens of audiotapes made and archived at UIS' Brookens Library will be included in the project, which is scheduled to be available online in the near future.

An article in the May 27, 2008, Arlington Heights Daily Herald outlined the project.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080527-DH-OralHistory.pdf

Tribune quotes Redfield in article on payday loans

The multibillion dollar payday loan industry has dramatically increased political contributions across the country in an attempt to minimize the effects of new laws aimed at protecting consumers; politicians in Illinois have received a large share of this money.

Kent Redfield, UIS professor emeritus of Political Studies, was quoted in an article on the subject in the May 27, 2008, Chicago Tribune.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080527-Trib-PaydayLoans.pdf

Article on Jones' use of campaign funds quotes Redfield

Since 1989, Illinois Senate President Emil Jones has taken thousands of dollars in interest-free personal loans from his campaign funds.

An article that appeared in CBS2 on May 23, 2008, quotes UIS Professor Emeritus Kent Redfield, who reviewed Jones' records on behalf of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform. Redfield noted that using "other people's money" to augment one's personal lifestyle is a conflict of interest.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080523-CBS2-JonesUseofFunds.pdf

Redfield quoted in article on Aurora political contributions

A number of business owners in Aurora have made thousands of dollars in political contributions to the city’s mayor in the names of various corporate entities. Though legal, this practice takes advantage of a loophole in Illinois campaign finance rules.

An article on the subject in the May 25, 2008, Aurora Beacon News quoted Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Studies at UIS.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080525-ABN-MayorsFund.pdf

U of I campuses should be a system of peers

The recent move of e-mail addresses on the Urbana campus from the "uiuc.edu" domain to "illinois.edu" might be seen as sending a mixed message about the status of the other two campuses in the University of Illinois system.

In an article that appeared in the May 20, 2008, Daily Illini, Chelsea Fiddyment argues that it is important not to lose sight of the fact that the Chicago and Springfield campuses are equally important members of the system: "institutions with a caliber of education equal to that of the central campus."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080520-DI-FirstAmongEquals.pdf

State's name-selling practice is "a way to make money"

The Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation, the agency that oversees more than 100 professions in the state, sells its database of names to marketing companies, and has done so for at least 30 years.

UIS Professor of Political Science Chris Mooney was quoted in an article that ran in the May 20, 2008, edition of the Rockford Register Star. Said Mooney, "It sounds like it might be a little bit shady, but the argument on the other side is, 'Would you rather be taxed?'"

Download a pdf file of the article

20080520-RRS-StateSellsNames.pdf

Redfield cited in Sun-Times article on Jones' use of campaign funds

A government watchdog group is questioning whether Illinois Senate President Emil Jones is taking advantage of a loophole in the law designed to ban personal use of campaign contributions. Since 1989, Jones has taken more than $120,000 in interest-free personal loans from his campaign funds, repaying less than $100,000.

An article that appeared in the Chicago Sun-Times on May 22, 2008, examines the subject and quotes UIS Professor Emeritus Kent Redfield, who reviewed Jones' records on behalf of the Illinois Campaign for Political Reform. Said Redfield, "It's the kind of open-ended float you would not get if you went to a commercial bank…"

Download a pdf file of the article

20080522-CST-JonesLoans.pdf

Mooney cited in article on Governor's re-election plans

Many across the state are wondering whether Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, in the face of possible legal troubles, will follow the precedent set by former Gov. George Ryan and choose not to run for re-election.

An article on the subject appeared in the May 20, 2008, NWI Times. In the article, UIS professor of Political Science Chris Mooney notes that while conventional wisdom says that Blagojevich's political career may be over, "in politics, you never know."

Download a pdf file of the article

20080520-NWI-GovReelection.pdf

Redfield quoted in article on consequences of Obama candidacy for state GOP

Many Republicans in Illinois are worrying that if Barack Obama wins the Democratic nomination for president, it could hurt the chances of Republicans running for a variety of state offices.

An article published in the May 19, 2008, Chicago Daily Herald quotes Kent Redfield, professor emeritus of Political Studies at UIS, on the possible consequences of an Obama candidacy for the state GOP.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080519-CDH-ObamaTicket.pdf

Article on passage of contributions bill quotes Mooney

In response to increasing public concern on ethics issues, the Illinois Senate prepared to vote on a bill outlawing political contributions from state contractors.

Chris Mooney, UIS professor of Political Science, was quoted in a May 15, 2008, article in St. Louis Today on the unusual situation that made passage of the bill likely.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080515-STL-Contributions.pdf

Mooney quoted in article on Senate bill

A bill outlawing political contributions from state contractors seemed certain to pass the Illinois Senate.

An article by Kevin McDermott that appeared in the Bloomington Pantagraph on May 15, 2008, quoted Chris Mooney, UIS professor of Political Science, on the unusual turn of events.

Download a pdf of the article

20080515-Pantagraph-Contributions.pdf

Chancellor Ringeisen profiled in Springfield Scene

Chancellor Richard Ringeisen had a long and successful career before he came "home" to UIS. The May/June 2008 edition of Springfield Scene Magazine features a profile of the Chancellor by Ed Russo.

Download a pdf file of the article

20080515-SSMag-Chancellor.pdf

Wheeler quoted in assessment of Lt. Gov.

As Gov. Rod Blagojevich faces unofficial but increasing talk of impeachment or indictment, people have come to view Lt. Gov. Pat Quinn in a more favorable light.

An article that appeared in the May 11 Bloomington Pantagraph includes an assessment by UIS Director of Public Affairs Reporting Charles Wheeler that Quinn has "shown himself to be a pretty decent state official."

Download a pdf file of the article
20080511-Pantagraph-Quinn.pdf

Redfield quoted in NYT article on Gov. Blagojevich

Once viewed by many as a rising political star, Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich has seen his hopes badly damaged by the corruption trial of his associate Antoin Rezko.

An article in the May 12 New York Times quotes UIS Professor Kent Redfield: "The governor's behavior up to this point suggests he won't go quietly, but it becomes increasingly more difficult for him to be effective and for people to take him seriously. It just seems like daily we get something new that links the governor’s office to something."

Download a pdf file of the article
20080512-NYT-CorruptionTaints.pdf

Student overcomes many obstacles to earn degree

The serious injuries that Veronica Schulz-Lehr suffered in a motorcycle accident nearly three years ago were just the latest setbacks on her path toward a college diploma, but on May 10 she graduated from UIS with a bachelor's degree in Social Work.

An article in the May 10 State Journal-Register profiles Schulz-Lehr's determination.

Download a pdf of the article
20080510-SJR-ManyDetours.pdf

Redfield quoted in article on Rezko trial

The trial of Illinois political fundraiser Antoin Rezko is making headlines around the country. While Rezko's friend Gov. Rod Blagojevich allegedly participated in the kickback schemes, he has not been charged and denies any wrongdoing.

The article "Closing Arguments Set for Tony Rezko Corruption Trial" that appeared in eNews 2.0 on May 12 cites UIS Professor Kent Redfield on the subject.

Redfield noted in part that developments in the trial have made it "increasingly difficult" for Blagojevich "to be effective and for people to take him seriously."

Download a pdf file of the article
20080512-eNews-Redfieldquoted.pdf

Heupel takes "Issues" into a new era

Illinois Issues, the public affairs magazine published by UIS' Center for State Policy and Leadership, is entering a new era with veteran statehouse reporter Dana Heupel as executive editor.

An article in the May 2008 edition of the Springfield Business Journal profiles both Heupel and the magazine.

Download a pdf file of the article.
20080509-SBJ-Heupel.pdf

UIS will receive portion of scholarship fund

State Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias has announced that his efforts to negotiate an additional $3.5 million in scholarship funds for college students in Illinois have been a success. The money will be available beginning in the fall 2008 semester. UIS will receive $18,500 to distribute based on students' financial need.

An article in the April 29, 2008, State Journal-Register gives more details about Giannoulias' plan.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080429-sjr-ScholarshipFund.pdf

Mary Jane's Cafe opens

Mary Jane's Cafe, the new coffee shop located in the lower level of Brookens Library at UIS, is open for business. The cafe is named for Mary Jane MacDonald, the first librarian hired at Sangamon State University, and offers a varied menu.

In an article in the April 27, 2008, State Journal-Register, Kathryn Rem talks with cafe operator Tyler Buckley and University Librarian Jane Treadwell about the new facility.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080427-sjr-MaryJanes.pdf

Campus faces accessibility issues

A number of students and faculty members with disabilities find the UIS campus less than fully accessible. Articles in the April 27, 2008, State Journal-Register outline the problem, as well as the administration's response.

Download a pdf file of the articles
20080427-sjr-Accessibility.pdf

UIS' new Emiquon Field Station opens

UIS has opened its new state-of-the-art field station at the Nature Conservancy's Emiquon Preserve, on the Illinois River near Havana.

State Journal-Register reporter Chris Young attended the ribbon-cutting ceremonies on Friday, April 25, and spoke to station director Michael Lemke as well as to officials from Dickson Mounds Museum and the Illinois chapter of the Nature Conservancy. UIS, Dickson Mounds, and the Nature Conservancy are partners in the project, which will provide learning opportunities not only to students and scientists, but to the general public.

Download a pdf file of the article
20080426-sjr-EmiquonFieldStationopens.pdf

Online courses are popular at UIS

More than half – 53% – of the students enrolled at UIS for the 2008 spring semester are taking at least one course online, and more than 30% are taking classes only online.

In fact, the number of UIS students taking online classes has increased each semester for the past 20 semesters. Reporter Chris Dettro took a look at the subject in an article than appeared in the April 24, 2008, State Journal-Register.

Download a pdf file of the article.
20080424-sjr-OnlineGrowing.pdf

UIS students' Earth Day project offers public reminder

A service-learning project undertaken by a group of UIS students for Earth Day will help remind everyone that storm drains are not meant as a handy place to dump household waste.

An article in the Springfield State Journal-Register on April 22, 2008, reported on the students' work. In a related article in that day's "Living Green" insert, UIS Assistant Professor of Environmental Studies Tih-Fen Ting talks about steps individuals can take to reduce their carbon footprints.

Download a PDF file of both articles:
20080422-sjr-EarthDay.pdf

Redfield examines state's need for recall provision

Professor Kent Redfield believes that rather than amending the state constitution to include a recall provision for elected officials, Illinois would be better served if more people got involved in the political process.

He outlines this state's existing mechanisms for removing elected officials and takes a brief look at recall, at the federal level and in other states, in an article that appeared in the March 2008 edition of the Illinois Business Journal.

Download a PDF file of the article
20080410-IBJ-Recall.pdf

Spring Enrollment down slightly

UIS enrollment for the spring '08 semester is down nearly 4 percent. While no one can say exactly why, part of the reason might be changed requirements for the campus' largest academic program, computer science. Projections for the fall semester remain good.

An article in the March 26, 2008, State Journal-Register reports on spring enrollment figures for UIS, Lincoln Land, and Springfield College.

Download a PDF file of the article:
20080326-sjr-EnrollmentDown.pdf

Schroeder works to expand access through online learning

Ray Schroeder, director of UIS' Office of Technology-Enhanced Learning, believes that e-learning is key to expanding future access to higher education. Therefore, he is playing an integral part in the effort to establish a national online learning consortium to serve small and mid-size colleges and universities.

In February, Schroeder was in Washington to speak with administrators and staff of that state's Higher Education Coordinating Board and to share UIS' experiences with developing online initiatives.

The February 2008 edition of the Washington Higher Education Coordinating Board Update profiles Schroeder's visit.

Download a pdf file of the article:

200800229-WHECB-OnlineKey.pdf

Emiquon Field Station will open this spring

When UIS' new Emiquon Field Station opens this spring, the partnership that has been established among the university, the Nature Conservancy, and Dickson Mounds Museum will allow for a sharing of resources as well as educational and research programs that would previously have been very difficult.

An article in the February 2, 2008, State Journal-Register reports on the progress of construction and gives readers a preview of the possibilities the facility has to offer.

Download a PDF file of the article:
20080202-sjr-EmiquonFieldStation.pdf

Experience with UIS Innocence Project directs student to law school

Erica Nichols graduated from UIS' Legal Studies department in May 2005. Now in her second year as a law student at Drake University, she says that her involvement with the university's Downstate Illinois Innocence Project helped shape her decision to enter law school.

An article in the January 7, 2008, Springfield State Journal-Register profiles Erica's work with the Innocence Project's investigation into the case of Herbert Whitlock.

Download a PDF file of the article:
20080107-sjr-NicholscreditsInnocenceProject.pdf