The Lunch and Learn Series, presented by the UIS Alumni SAGE Society and the Illinois State Historical Society, is a series of noontime lectures in the University's tradition of open and intelligent dialogue.
Monday, September 15
Dr. Hei-Chi Chan and Dr. Neetu Singh, Co-founders, UIS AI Campus Learning Community
Time: 1:30pm-2:30pm
Location: UIS Field Station at Lake Springfield, 9 Club Area, Springfield, IL 62712
Cost: $20 (Light Refreshments, Parking, and Gift to UIS included)
Join UIS faculty members Dr. Hei Chi Chan and Dr. Neetu Singh for a 鈥渉ands-on鈥� session exploring practical, real-world applications and usage of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in everyday life. This session will showcase the practical tools and technologies that are already transforming how we work, learn, and interact. From smart assistants to personalized recommendations and productivity boosters, participants will get hands-on experience in the responsible use of AI. Participants are encouraged to bring their personal devices (cell phones, laptops, tablets) to practice and explore.
Thursday, October 16
Dr. A.J. Simmons, Research Director, UIS Center for State Policy and Leadership
Time: 11am Doors Open | 11:30am Buffet Served | 12:00pm Program | 1:00pm Session Ends
Location: Illini Country Club, 1601 Illini Rd, Springfield, IL 62704
Cost: $50 (Lunch, Parking, and Gift to UIS included)
Why does it seem like Americans are more politically divided than ever? Join researcher Dr. A.J. Simmons for a timely and thought-provoking discussion on the roots of political polarization. Drawing on current research and real-world examples, Dr. Simmons will explore how changes in media creation and consumption, social networks, electoral systems, and political identity have deepened divisions. He will also discuss what actions and institutional reforms might help bridge the gap. This program offers a clear, accessible look at the forces shaping today鈥檚 political climate and considers how we can foster a healthier, more responsive democracy.
Friday, November 7
Dr. Deborah Brothers, English Faculty, Lincoln Land Community College
Time: 11am Doors Open | 11:30am Buffet Served | 12:00pm Program | 1:00pm Session Ends
Location: Illini Country Club, 1601 Illini Rd, Springfield, IL 62704
Cost: $50 (Lunch, Parking, and Gift to UIS included)
This program is a timely and thought-provoking discussion on the resurgence of book bans in the United States. Focusing especially on children鈥檚 literature, LLCC national award-winning professor Dr. Deborah Brothers will explore why certain books are being challenged, what themes are most often targeted, and how these actions reflect broader cultural and political tensions. The historical context of censorship and its modern implications for readers, educators, and communities will be explored.
Wednesday, December 3
Taryn Grant, Founding Executive Director, Springfield Youth Performance Group
Time: 11am Doors Open | 11:30am Buffet Served | 12:00pm Program | 1:00pm Session Ends
Location: Illini Country Club, 1601 Illini Rd, Springfield, IL 62704
Cost: $50 (Lunch, Parking, and Gift to UIS included)
The former site of the Elliott Avenue Baptist Church, one of the finer examples of mid-century modern architecture in Springfield, has been reborn as the Grant Conservatory for Music and Dance, an inspiring, safe place for young artists to learn, experiment and grow. With ingenuity, planning and hard work, the former sanctuary, church offices and other areas have been transformed into a unique and exceptional performance space with practice rooms, office space and more. In residence are the Springfield Youth Ballet Company and both the Illinois Symphony Youth Orchestra and Illinois Symphony Orchestra. Join Conservatory executive director Taryn Grant for a program covering the transformational journey and future of the Grant Conservatory for Music and Dance.
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If you have any questions, please contact UIS Advancement at advancement@uis.edu or 217-206-6058.