2019–2020

Annual Report

The Illinois International Annual Report provides a “snap shot” of the accomplishments and activities of Illinois International during the 2019-20 academic year. This report also recognizes the generous support of our donors who gave between July 1, 2019, and June 30, 2020.

Global Exchange

Illinois International impacts locally and globally.


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3,360
Students welcomed by International Student & Scholar Services for the Fall 2019 semester, and over 1,000 students checked in on a single day for the first time ever

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92
Program guides were developed by Illinois Abroad & Global Exchange to serve as accessible country and program-specific resources for students studying abroad


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130
International students participated in Global Education & Training's undergraduate summer schools

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85
New or renewed international agreements were processed by Global Relations for 10 colleges and 26 units on campus


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850
Students studied abroad in 42 countries in spring 2020 when the COVID-19 pandemic emerged;
International Safety & Security advised campus leadership on response efforts and
coordinated evacuation of students to the U.S. or their home country quickly and safely

The power of I

Unwavering strength during unprecedented times.


A message from Vice Provost Mabokela

rmabokela

Innovation. Impact. International. These words have defined the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign for more than 150 years. Throughout our storied history, the University has extended its research, education, and engagement across cultures, disciplines, geographies, and worldviews. But this year has been a year unlike any other, and presented us with an unexpected and unprecedented challenge to continue that legacy of global excellence in the midst of a global pandemic.

No challenge is too difficult for the Illinois family. From transitioning to online teaching and learning to creatively re-imaging programming and workflows in an online environment, our students, faculty, and staff demonstrated incredible power, strength, and resiliency. Though we may be separated by social distancing guidelines; there is no doubt that we are working, studying, and collaborating together more than ever.

On behalf of the entire Illinois International team, I want to thank our partners, collaborators, and donors for their tremendous support this year. Your contributions and commitment have helped us not only cope with the challenges of COVID-19, but have added a new chapter to our rich legacy of service to students and the public. While we may look ahead to a new year with many uncertainties, we remain committed to fostering more diverse and inclusive global classrooms, and leading with the same innovation and impact that we always have. I am grateful for your ongoing commitment to Illinois International and its programs. I hope the months to come bring a return to normal activities and a joyous time with family and friends.


Reitumetse Obakeng Mabokela, Ph.D.
Vice Provost for International Affairs & Global Strategies
Professor: Education Policy, Organization and Leadership
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

SUPPORTED BY

Generous donations from our global community.


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Donors


Thanks to the generous gifts from alumni and friends, Illinois International awarded more than $469,490 in study abroad scholarships, international research fellowships, and travel grants in 2019-20.

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Scholarships


Named and memorial scholarship funds allowed Illinois International to award 101 scholarships to Illinois undergraduate and graduate students pursuing educational opportunities outside of the United States.

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Students


Student fees contribute to the Illinois for Illinois Scholarship Fund, which supports undergraduate students pursuing study abroad experiences. The funds supported 112 students studying abroad in 2019-20.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

A highlight reel of our favorite stories from the past year.


Global Education & Training Partners with Zhejiang University to develop training programs

Illinois Abroad & Global Exchange publishes first annual report on campus study abroad

International Student & Scholar Services welcomes record numbers to campus

13 Illinois faculty members selected to receive 2019-2020 BRIDGE seed funding

5 Illinois faculty, alumni, and students recognized for their international achievements

A Year in Photos featuring Illinois International staff, activities, and initiatives





Thank you to our supporters!

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Donors

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Students & Alumni

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Families & Friends

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Faculty & Staff



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