University of Illinois System
Our CompassLocationsImpactPriorities & Initiatives

System Initiatives

The University of Illinois System leadership team serves as a catalyst and convener, forging collaborations across its three universities and partnerships with the state’s political, business, civic, and higher education leaders. These relationships create new and bigger opportunities for teaching, learning and research for our universities, our faculty, and our students. We seek to inspire a pursuit for answers, creativity, and excellence on every front, and provide incentives to help attract and retain the very best talent. We are also committed to narrowing gaps in opportunity, revitalizing the economy of urban and rural regions and communities, and improving education — at every level.

Learn more about some of our ambitious initiatives:

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Widening Doors

The University of Illinois System is widening our doors of opportunity so more students can learn, grow and prepare for tomorrow's job market, creating a stronger workforce and a richer society for our state and beyond.

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Closing Health Gaps

We're working together with our communities to understand and treat evolving healthcare needs and ensure the very best healthcare for all.

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Fueling Innovation

Through interdisciplinary research, corporate and public partnerships, and the support of federal, state, and private research funding, the talent from our three universities is pioneering innovation across all fields of study.

rendering of future home of DPI

Discovery Partners Institute

The Discovery Partners Institute (DPI), led by the U of I System, is revving up Illinois' tech community, preparing people for high-demand tech jobs, and building R&D centers of excellence.

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Illinois Innovation Network

The Illinois Innovation Network of public higher education hubs is working with communities across the state to improve the state's economy through an inclusive approach to innovation, research, and education.

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Clinical Laboratory Development Program

Located at University of Illinois Chicago, the CLDP's goal is to develop the next generation of laboratory technicians and scientists through hands-on training and work experiences.

Attracting world-class faculty. Creating infinite potential.

Faculty Recruitment

The U of I System has launched an aggressive $60 million initiative that will add to the ranks of world-class faculty across its three universities. The three-year initiative will attract up to 45 globally renowned faculty, building on the system's standing as a leader in education and innovation.

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Arts & Humanities

A second round of funding will provide $1.54 million to support 10 projects through the Presidential Initiative: Expanding the Impact of the Arts and the Humanities, launched in 2019.

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Strategic Enrollment

The U of I System has surpassed its high-aspiration goal to enroll more than 93,600 students across its three universities, a 15 percent increase over five years.