Dear Colleagues,
As we near the opening of the new academic year, I want to let you know of three new or changing appointments to my senior staff team that will be effective on August 16, 2023.
- Reitu Mabokela, currently the Vice Provost for Global Affairs and Strategies will also now have a joint appointment as an associate chancellor with my office. Her new title will be Associate Chancellor and Vice Provost for Global Affairs and Strategies. This shared appointment will enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of our entire international and global relations enterprise.
- Professor Kelvin Droegemeier, who formerly led the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy and who joined the faculty of the Department of Atmospheric Sciences earlier this summer will also have a shared appointment as a Special Advisor to the Chancellor for Science and Policy. In that capacity, he will work closely with the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation to advise on federal initiatives, policies and strategic opportunities in areas such as sustaining climate and ensuring resiliency in our ecosystems.
- Cynthia Oliver, a professor in the Department of Dance and an Associate Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation, will become a Special Advisor to the Chancellor for Arts Integration. In this role, she will lead my office’s efforts to further embed the arts into all aspects and missions of our university – a central component of our emerging Boldly Illinois 2030 Strategic Plan.
I look forward to working closely with all three in their new roles. I am excited about the impact their wisdom, vision and experience will have on our collective future here at Illinois.
Please join me in congratulating all three on their new positions.
Sincerely,
Robert J. Jones
Chancellor