June 6, 2024
Dear colleagues:
I am excited to announce the selection of Jerry Dávila and Pedro Hallal for the Presidential Fellows Program. This prestigious program supports faculty members from our three universities whose interests align with one or more of the system-wide strategic initiatives.
Dávila holds the Jorge Paulo Lemann Chair in Brazilian History at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. Dávila's research focuses on the influence of racial thought in public policy in Brazil, as well as the state and social movements in the 20th century. As a Presidential Fellow, he will serve as the director of the Brasillinois initiative and as an advisor to me and Vice President for Economic Development and Innovation Jay Walsh on matters relating to the initiative. His role will have special emphasis on developing and implementing a strategic vision for the initiative and fostering partnerships with Brazilian higher education and research institutions.
Hallal is a professor and director of the Master of Public Health program within the College of Applied Health Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign. He served as president of the Federal University of Pelotas, Brazil, from 2017 to 2020. His primary area of research is physical activity and public health. Hallal has published more than 500 scientific articles, and his research has been funded by Brazilian and international agencies. As a Presidential Fellow, he will serve as a system representative and advisor to me and Jay on matters relating to the Brasillinois initiative, with special emphasis on fostering partnerships with Brazilian higher education and research institutions.
I am delighted to share this good news and look forward to the contributions that Jerry and Pedro will make in their roles as Presidential Fellows.
Tim Killeen, President