During my visits with College of ACES alumni, students and their parents, industry partners, and other stakeholders, I am often asked about current challenges and opportunities facing our college. These friends of ACES want to know what we are doing to address important issues, and what can they do to support our college's excellence in teaching, research, and extension.

In response to these questions, I have launched a new initiative called "Illinois for Illinois." Through periodic communications, I plan to share information on key challenges being addressed and new opportunities being investigated by the University of Illinois and our college, and how this may affect our programs. My goal is to make each update short, clear, and to the point, encouraging further discussions around questions or thoughts individuals might have. This new communication can be viewed at Illinois for Illinois.

The University of Illinois and the College of ACES serve Illinois and its citizens in many different ways, through many different stakeholder partnerships. Through this new initiative, I hope to convey the importance and mutual value of these interdependent relationships.

I encourage readers of my updates to get back to me with any questions, thoughts, or ideas for future updates. Your feedback will be much appreciated!

Best regards,

Bob