Greetings, and happy fall semester! Campus is abuzz with excitement as students, faculty, and staff re-engage in face-to-face activities. It is wonderful to hear “I-L-L I-N-I” again.

As you may know, I will be transitioning to a new position in the Chancellor’s office on September 16^th. I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to elevate and expand engagement at the campus level in food, agriculture, nutrition, and rural health initiatives to help sustain the planet and to assist people with living their best lives. Even though my landscape will change, my efforts will remain closely aligned with the ACES and Illinois Extension mission. I stand ready to support a smooth and gracious transition when the Provost names the ACES interim dean.

My time as dean has been a tremendous learning experience. The college is filled with amazing faculty, talented staff and students, and capable leaders, and the trajectory for continued success is outstanding. We have experienced many unexpected things together, including navigating our way through a worldwide pandemic. I will always be proud and appreciative of the way people in the ACES and Extension community rallied together and supported each other through this difficult time. Although we generated many important outcomes together, I am most grateful for the relationships I have with many of you and for the wisdom you have shared with me.

As an alum, a part of my heart will always be in ACES. I look forward to building more bridges with the college, the campus, and external partners as opportunities arise. I wish each of you the best as you journey forward.

Fondly,

Kim