Dear U of I System Deans, Directors and Department Heads:
It is with regret but warm wishes that the Office of University Counsel formally announces the retirement of Lisa Power, Urbana-Champaign Campus Legal Counsel. Lisa has indicated she plans to retire on December 31, 2021.
Lisa has served with distinction in the Office of University Counsel since 2007. Prior to joining our office, she worked as assistant director of sponsored programs at the University and practiced law both privately and in the public sector. Before joining the legal profession, Lisa had a notable career in journalism, including serving first as a reporter and then an assistant bureau chief. Throughout her time at the University, Lisa has relied on these unique and valuable experiences and her keen intellect to offer critical and reliable advice that has helped navigate some of the University’s most trying challenges. She is well-respected by her colleagues within and outside the University for her intelligence, integrity, dedication and tireless work ethic. Lisa will be sorely missed.
Scott Rice, who earlier served for many years as Campus Legal Counsel, may need to resume his role as the Campus Counsel in Urbana on a short-term, interim basis. If so, Scott will continue to serve during that transition period as Deputy University Counsel at a reduced level.
Please join us in thanking Lisa for her outstanding service. We appreciate your support during this transition.
Tom Bearrows
University Counsel