Illinois Value Proposition

Awards and appreciation acknowledge and honor the unique contributions and achievements of individuals. Our awards embody our commitment to excellence, diversity, and the impactful stories that define our community.

Did You Know…

• Staff are able to receive $1,500 through the Chancellor Staff Excellence Award.

• The Office of the Provost offers 12 different award opportunities for faculty in excellence related to faculty leadership, instruction, and public engagement.

• International Illinois alumni can be recognized by the Madhuri and Jagdish N. Sheth International Alumni Award for Exceptional Achievement.

• The Larine Y. Cowan Make a Difference Awards recognizes employees who made significant contributions within Advocacy for LGBTQ Affairs, Excellence in Access and Accommodations, Leadership in Diversity, and Teaching and Mentoring in Diversity.

A beautiful campus provides an inspiring and conducive environment for learning, innovation, and community engagement. Our campus is unique due to its rich history, diverse culture, and commitment to the arts.

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• The gardens surrounding the Japan House are meticulously designed, featuring a Zen garden, a pond with a charming wooden bridge, and an allée of fifty cherry trees.

• Memorial Stadium contains nearly 200 pillars that pays tribute to the university’s students who died in World War I.

• Allerton Park and Retreat Center features 14 formal gardens showcasing a variety of styles, including a unique Chinese Parterre Garden.

Benefits and compensation demonstrate the organization’s recognition of employee value and contribution. Ours are transparent, flexible, and competitive to align with our dynamic community’s needs and aspirations.

Did You Know…

• If you are the child of a university employee, you may be eligible for a 50% tuition waiver through the Child of Employee Tuition Waiver.
• Academic Professional, Civil Service, or Faculty employees are eligible for the Employee Tuition Waiver if they hold an active appointment of 25% or more of full-time service for at least three-fourths of the academic term.

• The University of Illinois offers an Employee Referral Program (valued at $600) to encourage current employees to refer qualified candidates for open positions in specific areas.

Everyday extras enhance the daily work experience with added conveniences and benefits. Ours include exclusive perks which you have access to just by having an iCard.

Did You Know…

• All University of Illinois students, faculty, and staff can ride the Champaign-Urbana Mass Transit District (MTD) buses for free by showing their iCard.

• The iCard Perks provide discounts on dining, shopping, entertainment, and more for University of Illinois students, faculty, and staff.

• Students, faculty, and staff can enjoy significant discounts on software and hardware through the University of Illinois WebStore.

• University of Illinois affiliates receive discounted rates on car rentals through partnerships with companies like Enterprise and Zipcar.

• The University Library offers free access to Rosetta Stone for students, faculty, and staff, allowing them to learn up to 30 languages.

Growth and advancement foster personal and professional development. Ours are offered in a variety of styles and present the opportunity for impactful contributions within a supportive and collaborative culture.

Did You Know Facts:

• The University of Illinois provides free access to LinkedIn Learning for faculty, staff, and students, offering thousands of courses on various topics.

• Students, faculty, and staff can access over 170 non-credit online courses and specializations for free through Illinois on Coursera.

• The Staff Professional Development Fund offers financial support for staff to attend professional development opportunities, with up to $75,000 available annually.

Well-being supports the overall health and happiness of individuals. Our comprehensive approach includes mental health support, event planning for engagement, and a commitment to values-driven actions that prioritize community, inclusivity, and social responsibility.

Did You Know…

• The Campus Bike Center at the University of Illinois offers tools, parts, and hands-on learning for bicycle maintenance, promoting sustainable transportation.

• Campus Recreation provides a variety of fitness options, including group classes, personal training, swimming, and rock climbing at state-of-the-art facilities that faculty and staff can join with a payroll discount and at a discounted rate.

• The Faculty/Staff Assistance and Well-Being Services provide counseling, crisis support, and wellness programs for employees and members of their family.

• In February of 2025, Chancellor Jones held an official signing of the Okanagan Charter to have University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign join the 33 other colleges and universities dedicated to being Health Promotion Campuses.

A collaborative mindset encourages teamwork and shared success. Our community of scholars innovates within an agile and inclusive environment.

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Community builds a sense of belonging and shared purpose. Our supportive networks value engagement and the collective well-being of all members.

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Diversity enriches our perspectives and innovation. Our commitment to inclusivity and representation includes fostering an environment where every voice is valued and contributes to our collective success.

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Making a difference drives positive change and growth. Our proactive engagement in local and global initiatives create impactful solutions that resonate with our core values of service and excellence.

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Nostalgia connects us to our past and shapes our identity. Our emphasis on family and connectedness are acknowledged as strengths that allow us to continue to reflect and grow as an organization.

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Prestige reflects the recognition of excellence and leadership. Our distinctive reputation for fostering a culture of success and high standards inspires and motivates our community to achieve and innovate.

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Approachable leadership fosters trust and open communication. Our leaders’ genuine commitment to accessibility and mentorship ensures that every team member feels heard and supported.

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• The Chancellor Check-In Videos provide regular updates from the Chancellor, addressing key campus initiatives and events to keep the university community informed.

• The Meet Our Leadership Videos introduce the university’s senior leaders, offering insights into their roles and visions for the future.

• The Monthly Note from the Provost shares important academic updates, policy changes, and highlights of faculty achievements, fostering communication within the university community.

Flexible workplace culture encourages work-life balance and adaptability. Our commitment to providing personalized flexibility options cater to the diverse needs of our team, fostering a supportive and productive environment.

Did You Know…

• The University of Illinois offers comprehensive well-being programs to ensure employees thrive both personally and professionally.

•  We embrace workplace flexibility, allowing eligible employees to work hybrid or fully remote schedules, balancing on-site presence with remote work.

• Illinois is committed to supporting work-life balance through various programs, such as parental leave, modified duties, and wellness services, helping employees manage their professional and personal lives effectively.

Innovation drives progress and competitive advantage. Our culture of continuous learning and experimentation empowers our team to push boundaries and create transformative solutions.

Did You Know…

• Curb Cuts, Cybernetics, LEDs: Curb cuts, initially designed for wheelchair users, benefit everyone, including parents with strollers and cyclists. Cybernetics, the study of communication and control in living beings and machines, has led to advancements in prosthetics and robotics. LEDs, or light-emitting diodes, are energy-efficient lighting solutions that have revolutionized illumination technology.

• The Morrow Plots at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign are the oldest experimental agricultural fields in the United States, established in 1876 to study crop rotation and soil fertility.

• The University of Illinois developed a rapid saliva-based COVID-19 test, enabling frequent testing and helping to control the spread of the virus on campus.

Innovation drives progress and competitive advantage. Our culture of continuous learning and experimentation empowers our team to push boundaries and create transformative solutions.

Did You Know…

• Illinois Promise provides grants, scholarships, and work-study opportunities to cover tuition, fees, food, housing, and books for eligible students from low-income families.

• As a land-grant university, the University of Illinois is dedicated to practical education and research in agriculture, science, and engineering, benefiting the public and driving economic development.

The University of Illinois prioritizes student success through comprehensive support services, including academic advising, tutoring, and career counseling.

Stability provides a reliable foundation for growth and security. Our consistent track record of steady performance and strategic foresight instills confidence and loyalty among our team and stakeholders.

Did You Know…

• The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has a rich history, celebrating over 150 years of excellence in education, research, and public service.

• The University of Illinois supports career longevity by offering professional development opportunities, mentorship programs, and a supportive work environment for its employees.

• The University of Illinois has a strong labor history, with a commitment to fair labor practices, collective bargaining, and advocating for workers’ rights.

A statewide network connects diverse communities and resources, enhancing collaboration and impact. Our extensive reach and integration with local communities strengthens our mission and amplifies our collective success.

Did You Know…

• Illinois Extension provides research-based knowledge and programs to help individuals, families, and communities solve problems, develop skills, and build a better future.

• The School of Social Work collaborates with community organizations to address social issues, providing students with hands-on experience and benefiting local communities.

• The University of Illinois System includes three campuses in Urbana-Champaign, Chicago, and Springfield, serving over 97,700 students.