Doris Kelley Christopher Extension Center
Illinois Extension, the high-impact, geographically dispersed, outward-facing public good of the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, is poised to have its first central facility in its 100+ year history.
The inception of the innovative Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center, nestled in the scenic environment of the campus’ arboretum, is creating a collaborative hub across Extension’s program areas, senior leadership team, and support staff.
Thanks to the extraordinary generosity of Doris Kelley Christopher, University of Illinois alumna and founder of Pampered Chef, a bold vision for the future of Extension is becoming a reality. Her transformative gift is funding the creation of a modern, purpose-built facility that will serve as a statewide model for innovation, outreach, and community engagement. This remarkable new facility will serve as a tangible gateway to the university while further facilitating Extension to organize around its strategic priorities, serve the state more efficiently, and fulfill its mission of “Lifelong Learning. Lifelong Impact.”
The Christopher Extension Center will feature three “jewel” spaces that will inspire research, learning, and collaboration. A media studio, a maker space, and a discovery kitchen will allow Extension educators and specialists to provide hands-on learning, high-quality training videos and educational materials, digital program delivery, and new ways to engage existing and emerging audiences across Extension’s six program areas: 4-H; agriculture and agribusiness; community and economic development; family and consumer sciences; integrated health disparities; and natural resources, environment, and energy.
Project Updates and Timelines
Construction of Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center is now underway. This state-of-the-art facility will include:
- Flexible classrooms and event space for community education.
- Technology-enabled meeting rooms to support hybrid and remote engagement.
- Demonstration kitchen and teaching garden to promote healthy living and food access.
- Collaborative workspace for Extension staff and university partners.
Once completed, Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center will become a flagship site for University of Illinois Extension, serving as a launchpad for new ideas, pilot programs, and community-based solutions. From agriculture to youth development, nutrition to economic development, this facility will bring together people from across Illinois to learn, lead, and make a lasting impact.
Current Timeline
- Groundbreaking: Summer 2025
- Construction Phase: Summer 2025-Spring 2027
- Anticipated Completion: Spring 2027
- Grand Opening Celebration: Planned for Summer/Fall 2027
Regular updates will be posted online as progress continues!
Explore Giving Opportunities
The unprecedented facility is also providing special opportunities for those who share Extension’s core values and want to contribute philanthropically through naming opportunities and other sponsorships. For more information about how you can deepen the impact of the Illinois Extension mission, please contact Scott Burnsmeier, Illinois Extension's Assistant Director for Advancement: Phone: 217-520-4634 | Email: srb@uillinois.edu
Arboretum
Illinois Extension is thrilled to be making its new home in the University of Illinois’ arboretum, located at the southeastern part of campus and already housing Japan House, the Champaign County Extension Master Gardener’s Idea Garden, Noel Welcome Garden, and other treasured features. The grounds of the arboretum are open sunrise to sunset each day, with limited metered parking along South Lincoln Avenue and in the lot south of Japan House, which are free after 5 p.m. and on the weekends. Leashed dogs are welcome.