Five Illinois professors named University Scholars

CHAMPAIGN - Five University of Illinois professors at the Urbana-Champaign campus have been named University Scholars in recognition of their excellence in teaching, scholarship and service.

The recipients include Zeynep Madak-Erdogan, who is actively involved in the Cancer Center at Illinois. A professor in the study of food and nutrition, she served as a health innovation professor at the Carle Illinois College of Medicine and is an active member of the Center for Genomic Diagnostics at Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology.

Renowned history professor Robert Morrissey has gained widespread recognition nationally and internationally, positioning him as a prominent figure among eminent scholars in the fiercely competitive realm of early American history. In 2020, he played a pivotal role in the initiation of a groundbreaking collaborative initiative focused on art history and practice within Illinois-descended tribal communities.

Award-winning chemistry professor Joaquín Rodríguez-López, an outstanding research advisor mentoring 30 graduate students and 10 postdocs, created “The Electrochemistry Bootcamp,” which combines laboratory and classroom instruction on the basics of electrochemistry for a three-day immersive experience for young scientists from all over the world. He has been recognized five times as an outstanding teacher by his students and has also received the 2023 School of Chemical Sciences Teaching Award.

Jacob Sherkow has authored or co-authored more than 60 articles and essays, two books on COVID-19 innovation policy, four book chapters and many op-eds. The main body of his work focuses on intellectual property and medical therapies, agency regulation and the legal and ethical issues attendant to advanced biotechnologies. A law professor, he holds faculty appointments at the Carl R. Woese Institute for Genomic Biology, the Carle Illinois College of Medicine and the European Union Center. He has also advised major scientific organizations on bioethical issues, including the Adaptive Immune Receptor Repertoire Community and the New York Genome Center.

Hanghang Tong, has published more than 200 refereed papers and four books. A professor of computer science, he conducts highly influential research focused on large-scale data mining and machine learning, especially for graph and multimedia data. His work has theoretic and applicable impact, solving real-world problems from high-impact application domains where graph mining often plays a fundamental role, such as social networks, bioinformatics, security and e-commerce.

“When you consider the diversity of scholarship across all three of our universities and the standards of academic excellence that we nurture and grow through our recruitment of esteemed educators and researchers, all of our University Scholar recipients should be deservedly proud of the honor,” Nicholas Jones, the University of Illinois System’s executive vice president and vice president for academic affairs, said in today's statement.

The scholars program recognizes faculty excellence and provides $15,000 to each scholar for three years to enhance their academic careers. The money may be used for travel, equipment, research assistants, books, or other purposes.The scholars program recognizes faculty excellence and provides $15,000 to each scholar for three years to enhance their academic careers. The money may be used for travel, equipment, research assistants, books, or other purposes.

“The University Scholars program celebrates the remarkable achievements of the named individuals,” Jones added. “Our faculty represent the strong foundation of the world-class academic experience that contributes to the betterment of society and draws students and researchers to the U. of I. System universities from across the globe. The University Scholars are exemplars of that faculty excellence.

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A few valuable tips moving to campus this August

SNS - Moving to a new town during the summer, especially to a college campus, involves unique set of challenges and opportunities. Whether you're a student gearing up for your first semester or a faculty member relocating for a new position from Boise, Idaho, to Champaign-Urbana, Illinois, the right strategy can simplify your relocation. We aim to equip you with practical tips and insights to tackle moving challenges confidently. You can settle easily into your new home by addressing these considerations thoughtfully.

Moving to a community with a world-class university is easy with a few practical tips to ease the transition.

Photo: PhotoNews Media Archives

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Choosing the Right Time to Move
Selecting the optimal time to move can significantly affect how smoothly your relocation goes. First, choosing the right day can help you avoid the rush and often results in lower moving costs. Mid-month and mid-week days are typically less busy for moving companies, which can translate into availability and possibly discounted rates.

Starting early in the day is also advantageous, especially when moving homes during the summer. Cooler morning temperatures make the physical aspect of moving more tolerable. It also provides a buffer time for unexpected delays, ensuring you still have daylight to unpack essential items.

Hiring Moving Help
Selecting the right moving assistance is vital to safely transport your belongings from Boise, Idaho, to Champaign-Urbana, Illinois. You’ll need a reliable team with stellar customer reviews, and in our opinion, Peasley Transfer & Storage Boise fits the description perfectly. This moving company specializes in interstate moves and offers expert packing services to ensure the safety of your items. However, you can only contract their transport services if you can’t afford the entire service package.

Packing Smart: Essentials for Moving Homes During the Summer
Before you start packing, declutter to lighten your load. Donate items you no longer need, or sell them if time allows to make extra cash. That makes packing easier and means fewer boxes to unload and organize in your new space.

Packing smart is key for any move, but summer poses additional challenges due to the heat. For starters, electronics, candles, and certain perishables can be affected in hot moving trucks. So, wrap electronics in insulating bubble wrap and keep them in a climate-controlled environment if possible. Use coolers or insulated boxes to prevent the melting of candles and similar items.

Following that, prioritize lightweight clothing and breathable fabrics that will be comfortable upon arrival and throughout the unpacking process. Next, pack heavier items at the bottom of your boxes and lighter items on top to prevent crushing.

Above all, keep important documents like IDs, university paperwork, and lease agreements in a separate, clearly labeled folder. This folder should be easily accessible throughout your move. Likewise, include a small bag with essentials like chargers, snacks, and a water bottle that stays with you.

Managing Stress and Staying Organized During Your Move
Moving, especially to a new campus, can be overwhelming. But there are a few strategies to manage stress and keep everything in order during your transition:

Routine Matters: Establish a daily routine to balance moving tasks and relaxation. This regularity can reduce stress and enhance mood stability.

Stay Active: Engage in physical activities like walks or workouts at the campus gym because exercise can help alleviate stress by releasing endorphins.

Reach Out: If the move becomes too stressful, seek support from campus counseling services. They're available to assist you.

Checklists and Schedules: Create detailed lists and a timeline for all moving tasks. This approach keeps you organized and prevents last-minute rushes.

Digital Tools: Use task management apps to keep track of your moving checklist and box inventory. These tools help maintain clarity and control.

Regular Breaks: Schedule breaks to avoid fatigue. Taking time to rest can refresh your focus and increase productivity.

Remembering these tips will make it easier for you to handle the physical and mental challenges of moving, ensuring a smoother transition.

Settling In: The First Week on Campus
The first week in your new campus home is the most important for a smooth start to your academic or professional life. First of all, focus on essentials. Set up your bedroom to ensure you have a comfortable place to sleep. Next, organize your bathroom and kitchen. Having these areas functional will reduce stress and improve your daily routine, making it easier to keep your new home clean.

Next, visit the campus administration to finalize outstanding paperwork and get your bearings. Locate key facilities like the library, student union, and health services. Familiarizing yourself with these resources early on can greatly enhance your campus experience.

The student union is a great place on campus to meet new people and find organizations that fits your intersts.

PhotoNews Media/Clark Brooks

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Introduce yourself to neighbors and attend introductory meetings or social events. Engaging with the community helps build connections and can provide support as you adjust to your new surroundings. It also opens doors to opportunities and enriches your social life.

Wrapping it up
As we wrap up on moving homes during the summer, remember that these tips are designed to ease the transition. From choosing the right time to move to managing stress and staying organized, each step is crucial in ensuring a smooth start to your new chapter. By carefully planning and embracing these strategies, you can enjoy a more relaxed and efficient moving experience. Good luck as you settle into your new environment, and may your move be as stress-free and successful as possible.