Our Values
We value the diverse perspectives of faculty, students, staff, and community partners whose collective insights foster meaningful dialogue, advance scholarly research, and strengthen our commitment to public engagement.
We believe in the transformative power of education to create a more just and equitable world. This belief drives us to become educators, researchers, and leaders committed to challenging the status quo and reimagining what is possible. As part of the University of Illinois—a public, land-grant institution—our mission extends well beyond our classrooms and campus. We strive to improve lives and strengthen communities locally, nationally, and globally.
Our community is united by shared ideals:
A deep respect for the diversity of ideas, cultures, and social identities
A strong commitment to community engagement and outreach
A responsibility to make learning accessible, inclusive, and empowering for all
Fostering a diverse and inclusive community of learners is not just a goal—it is foundational to who we are. From our leadership to our students, the excellence of our College is reflected in the rich diversity of perspectives, experiences, and voices that shape our work every day.
Alumna Katie Moore, ’10 LAS, Ed.D. ’25 EPOL credits the university’s long track record of strongly supporting students with disabilities as a major factor in returning to Illinois.
Illinois has a great reputation, and I was already proud of my status as an alumni so I wanted to make sure I continued my education here.