Sammer Jones, Ph.D. '16 EPOL, director of Global Relations at Illinois, was named a recipient of the 2025 Chancellor's Staff Excellence Award.
Dr. Jones plays a key role in strengthening Illinois' global presence. She manages strategic partnerships, oversees international agreements, and helps coordinate collaborations across academic, research, and administrative sectors. Her leadership has been central to initiatives such as the Global Staff Exchange, which extends international learning opportunities to staff in addition to faculty and students.
The Chancellor’s Staff Excellence Award (CSEA) recognizes the outstanding work of all university staff members who perform a wide range of critical functions for our university. Staff provide critical administrative support, support our research laboratories and education programs, serve our students, and offer important outreach programs throughout the state and beyond.
Each winner of the CSEA award will be honored at a reception hosted by the Chancellor, receive $1,500 (after taxes), and receive a commemorative award. They will also be featured virtually in a podcast or video through the University of Illinois and spotlighted by the News Bureau.
