Dear students, 

I’m pleased to introduce Illinois Leads, our strategic plan for the future of our university that aligns our values and actions for the next five years and beyond.  

Truly leading means listening to the people we serve. The university has been working since January to listen to students, faculty, staff, alumni, community leaders, and industry partners to develop high-reaching goals that will have local, state, national, and global impact. I invite you to explore the plan to learn more about our goals informed by feedback from your peers. 

I'm sharing this message with you not to pass along another administrative document, but to let you know that you are an important part of this story. Your time at Illinois is not just about what you gain from this university, but what you leave behind. The questions you ask, the ideas you pursue, and the communities you serve make Illinois stronger for the students who come after you.  

Thank you for being part of our university’s story. If you're interested in engaging in the work or have additional questions, I encourage you to email illinoisleads@illinois.edu. 

Sincerely, 

Charles L. Isbell, Jr. 
Chancellor