CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, Ill. (WAND) - The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has launched a new initiative called the ‘Community Impact’ campaign.
'Community Impact' is a university-wide effort to shine a light on the work researchers are doing to make life better in East Central Illinois.
“We can see and feel the impact of Illinois research all around us, from interesting events and programs for kids to innovations that bring new industries, companies, and jobs to our communities,” said Vice Chancellor for Research and Innovation Susan Martinis, whose office spearheaded the campaign. “We’re known for developing some of the world’s most game-changing technologies, but research has a massive impact locally, too.”
There will be billboards, bus ads, digital ads, and a new website where community members can learn more about how Illinois research impacts their lives.
The website is broken down into eight themes: water, health, economy, agriculture, kids, pets, aging, and vibrant communities. Each theme page contains stories, stats, Q&As, and more to show how Illinois research impacts Central Illinois.
“Our researchers live here and care about the same things everyone cares about, like safe drinking water for their kids,” said Martinis. “Of course, I’m a researcher myself—but I’m also a parent and we’ve raised our three kids here. I’m so proud of the important work that’s happening on campus and what it means for the people in our communities.”
The initial phase of the campaign, including the billboards and digital ads, will last through mid-December.
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