Each year, I get to work with not only some of the best and brightest individuals who graduate from one of our three campuses, but also who are committed to public service and public policy. This year is no exception. Who would have imagined that under the veil of masks and the unknown of a worldwide pandemic, the Illini Science Policy Program would be ushering in its fifth cohort of Scholars. Our program is strong, it is growing, and it is creating a legacy of individuals who promise to change the future. The seven scholars who make up the ISPP Cohort 5 help bridge connections between state agencies and legislative offices and the work of Illinois Extension. They work with their host agencies and extension mentors on issues related to broadband and digital equity, health and mental health equity, agricultural sustainability and college/career pathways, STEM/STEAM education, data analytics and workforce efficiencies. There is no topic that we are too afraid to cover, if it means supporting communities and bringing a voice to neighborhoods, especially those that are historically marginalized. Working with their host and extension mentors, our scholars look to find ways to connect, collaborate, and communicate so that individuals and communities in Illinois and beyond have the resources and tools they need to grow, prosper and thrive towards a better tomorrow. 

Read more about our scholar 2024-25 ISPP Scholars Speak 

Learn more about the ISPP and our Scholars Press release  Policy Summit