FUELING TALENT, ADVANCING KNOWLEDGE, POWERING THE FUTURE
The future of work is already here, and it’s powered by Illinois
WORLDWIDE NETWORK
GLOBAL REACH,
LOCAL IMPACT
The U of I System is shaping the global conversation through research, partnerships, and innovation that drive progress at home and abroad
Across continents, Illinois collaborations advance breakthroughs in health, technology, and sustainability. International students and scholars enrich our campuses with diverse perspectives that strengthen learning, research, and community life.
From convening world leaders in Chicago to driving discoveries in Brazil, Taiwan, and beyond, Illinois ideas are solving challenges that cross borders and transform lives.
When Illinois leads, the world listens. And everyone benefits.
FOCUSED ON A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE
In June 2025, the U of I System hosted SRI2025, the Sustainability Research & Innovation Congress’s first U.S. gathering. Attendees met with one aim: Turn evidence into action on the climate crisis.
Scientists, policymakers, business leaders, and advocates worked side by side, exploring new approaches toward actionable solutions. Young leaders and underrepresented voices led the way, reminding everyone that equity is essential to resilience.
For the U of I System, SRI2025 was more than a conference. It was proof of the public university system at work: connecting people, sharing knowledge, and moving ideas into action.
1,700+
Number of researchers, Indigenous leaders, policymakers, business executives, and advocates who attended SRI
120+
Number of sessions over the four days of the congress — conversations crossed borders and disciplines.
CONNECTING WITH BRAZILIAN INSTITUTIONS
Spring 2025, Brazil. President Killeen lands with a mission: to expand collaboration, accelerate solutions, and deepen the influence of Brasillinois — the initiative connecting the U of I System with Brazilian institutions to tackle climate, health, and social challenges.
Since its inception, Brasillinois has become a hub of action. Student and faculty exchanges bring fresh perspectives across sustainability, medicine, public health, and social inclusion. More than 100 Brazilian undergraduates and doctoral students have the chance to study at U of I System campuses, while Illinois faculty travel to Brazil to collaborate on pioneering projects.
Best of all, the results are tangible. Climate innovations are tested, health equity initiatives gain momentum, and inclusive education programs reach new communities.
ONE SHARED VISION, 20 NATIONS
For a week, 50 delegates from around the world representing government, business, and academia immersed themselves in the U of I System’s dynamic network during the 20th Americas Competitiveness Exchange (ACE). From breakthroughs in quantum computing to advances in agriculture, they saw firsthand how Illinois drives progress through education, research, and public-private collaboration. For delegates from Argentina to Costa Rica, the visit sparked ideas for advances in quantum, research collaborations, and new industry partnerships. The U of I System transforms global connections into lasting collaborations — engines of prosperity that drive impact both at home and across the world.
“We made sure to convey a wider view of the state and showcase some of Illinois’ gems outside of Chicago. ACE delegates got to see how we work together and that a win for one of us is a win for all of Illinois.”
Jeannette Tamayo, the system’s associate vice president for workforce development and community engagement