People

Agriculture is a stressful occupation, and farmers struggle with anxiety and depression at higher levels than the general population. A new study from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign examines differences in mental health challenges for men and women farmers, focusing on the role of social support in mitigating stress.

Diana Rodríguez vividly remembers what it’s like to navigate the complex and daunting U.S. college admissions process as a racially minoritized, first-generation college student. Raised by Mexican immigrant parents in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, Rodríguez’s family valued education but had little access to guidance for first-generation college students and their families. 

For Elizabeth Olson, ACES associate dean for diversity, equity, and inclusion, DEI is much more than a trend or a catchphrase; it means sustained, intentional, data-driven work that appreciably benefits all ACES students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners. 

“ACES is a great college to be a part of,” she said. “We just need to ensure that is true for everyone, regardless of identity, background, and experiences.”

Since its establishment in 1941, the Child Development Lab at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has relied on the strong vision and leadership of its directors. Now, Hannah Kye will lead the CDL into the future. 

The College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign is entering the new academic year with significant growth, welcoming both its largest freshman class in 50 years and a talented cohort of faculty members. This fall, the college has promoted 11 faculty members and added 14 new faculty, further enhancing its academic, research, and outreach capabilities.

Illinois residents who took part in a new couples’ relationship strengthening program reported many improvements in their connections with their spouses or partners and in their individual well-being too, research suggests. 

When graduates leave the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, they enter a global network of alumni and friends making a difference in their fields. Even in the very farthest corners of the world, ACES alumni can be found leading industries and making progress toward the college’s mission to build robust food systems, nurture thriving families and communities, and steward a healthy planet. 

Participants on a self-directed dietary education program who had the greatest success at losing weight across a 25-month period consumed greater amounts of protein and fiber, a study found. Personalization and flexibility also were key in creating plans that dieters could adhere to over time. 

The University of Illinois Alumni Association has named Jim and Marlene Evans the 2024 recipients of the UIAA Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes alumni accomplishments and service throughout their lives. A slate of eight alumni awards in six categories were presented on Sept.

You’ve probably heard that cultivating gratitude can boost your happiness. But in marriage and families, it’s not just about being more grateful for your loved ones — it’s also important to feel appreciated by them. Researchers at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign have previously explored the positive impact of perceived gratitude from romantic partners for couples’ relationship quality.