The University of Illinois Springfield begins a new academic year today, marking the 56th first day of classes since our university welcomed its first students in 1970. A lot has changed since then, but our commitment remains the same: providing an excellent educational experience, both in and out of the classroom, for every learner.
I always enjoy the start of a new academic year. There is an energy on campus that is hard to miss as students move into their residence halls, find their classrooms, reconnect with friends and get involved. I also enjoy welcoming new students to Springfield and watching them begin to make this community their home.
This fall, we are welcoming more first-year students than we did last year. Starting college is a big transition. Students are meeting new people, adjusting to new expectations and, for many, living away from home for the first time. Our faculty and staff are here to support them every step of the way.
Being a regional public university means being closely connected to the community around us. Our students work, intern and volunteer throughout Springfield. They eat at local restaurants, attend community events and get to know the city. Those experiences are part of their education, and I appreciate the many ways Springfield welcomes and supports our students.
There is plenty to look forward to at UIS this year.
If you’ve been to campus recently, you have probably noticed the progress on our new Library Commons. Over the summer, the building’s steel structure was completed, concrete floors and roof decks were poured, and key infrastructure was installed. Interior construction is now well underway, and the project remains on track to open in 2027.
The Library Commons is a significant state investment in our students and their success. It will be much more than a new home for our library. Advising, tutoring, career development and technology support will all come together in one modern space, making it easier for students to find the help and resources they need.
I am also looking forward to welcoming the community back to the UIS Performing Arts Center in October.
The Performing Arts Center has been closed for the past year during a major infrastructure renovation in the Public Affairs Center. During that time, our Performing Arts Services team also pursued improvements supported by a successful fundraising effort. Sangamon Auditorium will reopen with new seating and carpet, along with improved accessibility and upgraded equipment.
For decades, the UIS Performing Arts Center has brought the university and Springfield community together for Broadway productions, concerts, lectures and other performances. We have missed having audiences on campus, and I know many in the community have missed these experiences, too. I can’t wait to welcome everyone back this fall.
We are also looking ahead to a new academic program that responds to an important workforce need.
In fall 2027, UIS will launch a Bachelor of Applied Science in engineering technology. The transfer-friendly program will prepare engineering technologists and technicians with the hands-on technical skills needed by public agencies and private firms.
Illinois needs more professionals with these skills. UIS can help meet that need while building on our relationships with community colleges, employers and public agencies. That is an important part of our role as a regional public university: listening to what our region needs and finding ways to respond.
The beginning of a new academic year gives us an opportunity to celebrate the connections between UIS and the community while looking ahead to what comes next.
Most of all, I am excited to see what our students accomplish and the ways our university and community will continue to learn, grow and work together.
Here’s to a great academic year at UIS.
Janet L. Gooch is the chancellor of the University of Illinois Springfield.
This article appears in August 20-26, 2026.
