Welcome to the Prairie Stars Family
The UIS Parent and Family Leadership Council is a select group of dedicated families who serve as influential partners in shaping the future of 天美传媒 Springfield through leadership, philanthropy and advocacy. As a member, you鈥檒l receive special access to the university, including exclusive events and direct engagement with university leaders. You鈥檒l enjoy a personalized experience with a dedicated university liaison to assist you every step of the way. Your involvement is essential to our success, highlighting the vital role families play in our university鈥檚 achievements.
Why Join the Parent & Family Leadership Council?
- Connect with a dedicated university liaison to help you and your student navigate UIS.
- Attend biannual UIS Parent and Family Leadership Council meetings featuring breakout sessions with the Chancellor and key university leadership.
- Network with a community of engaged parents and families who share your commitment to their student鈥檚 education, leadership, and giving back.
- Connect with specific UIS offices of interest to you and your student, including the Career Development Center.
- Receive tickets to select events, including two to our annual Alumni Gala.
- Direct your philanthropic support to areas aligned with your personal values or your student鈥檚 academic path, including the option to create an endowment in your family鈥檚 name in perpetuity.
- Serve as UIS ambassadors, including welcoming new families and participating in events such as Parents and Family Weekend and New Student Orientations.
- Engage with advisory committees and leadership boards that align with your interests, such as Dean鈥檚 Advisory Boards or planning for Parents and Family Weekend.
- Stay up to date with UIS Today and a dedicated Parent and Family Council group page just for members.
If you are interested in joining the Parent & Family Leadership Council, please submit your membership request below.
For questions, please contact Kate Bolte, director of annual giving and strategic programs, at kate.bolte@uis.edu or 217-206-6059.
Parent & Family Leadership Council Team

Gabe Cagwin, Ph.D.
Vice Chancellor for Advancement
Senior Vice President, University of Illinois Foundation
(217) 206-7822
gcagw@uis.edu

Wayne Davenport
Associate Vice Chancellor for Development
(217) 506-7074
wayne.davenport@uis.edu

Kate Bolte
Director of Annual Giving and Strategic Programs
(217) 206-6059
kate.bolte@uis.edu

Katie Champion Williams
Director of Development
(217) 206-6058
kwill50@uis.edu