Directory
Leadership
Allison Vance leads messaging for the university and assists with crisis communications. She supervises the institutional communications, media relations and News Bureau teams and manages the marketing and communications team for the Office of the Provost. She also teaches public relations courses in the department of advertising and is a proud two-time alumna (journalism and advertising) of the College of Media.
Andrew Gleason is a director, cinematographer, editor and producer who loves making movies. He leads a team that creates, produces and directs a variety of videos for both campus level communications as well as client requests from departments all over campus. In addition, Andrew helps to develop the Campus Video Database and the Campus Videographers. When he isn’t making movies, he is spending time sharing his love for stories, movies and books with his two children, Eva and Liam.
Stephanie Henry is a writer and editor who provides communications support and strategy for the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Academic Affairs and Provost. She has served as a communications and marketing professional at the university since 2013. When not at work, Stephanie enjoys spending time outside with her golden retriever, Murphy, gardening, and listening to live music (preferably outdoors).
Lea Peck is the strategic mind behind the @uofillinois social media handles. Whether deciphering algorithms or crafting clever captions, Lea transforms #ILLINOIS stories into captivating narratives that resonate with both the curious and the committed. Outside of work, she enjoys reading (and napping) with her two kittens and puppy, exploring new cities in search of the best gluten free pastry and embracing new hobbies on a whim.
August Schiess leads the social media, marketing, web and design teams for the university. She enjoys working with colleagues to develop and execute strategic, branded campaigns and content to effectively and strategically tell the Illinois story—and helping others do the same. When she’s not checking her phone for notifications, she’s reading, running or finding her next piece of chocolate.
Anna Simon specializes in event safety, event production and audio-visual needs for events hosted by the Chancellor including Commencement, New Student Convocation and other institutional events. She focuses on learning and implementing technology that will enhance an event from the user’s experience and works to streamline processes. While away from the office, she and her husband wrangle their three children and their Coton de Tulear.
Pam Steele is the executive assistant to the Associate Chancellor. As part of her role, she also leads all business and human resources activities for the unit. When she’s not working, she enjoys volunteering in her hometown of Tolono and spending time with her grandkids.
As the Director of Analytics and Alignment, Rashmi combines meaningful metrics, data-based storytelling, process documentation, and project management to drive strategic decision-making. Beyond her role at StratCom, Rashmi is a PhD student in the iSchool and is pursuing research that ties data, higher ed marketing, and user experiences together. During her leisure time, she enjoys reading, spending time with her dog, Puri, and traveling to new places to try new foods.
Patrick Wade leads executive communications and supports the Chancellor’s speechwriting to promote consistent and compelling messaging to key stakeholders. He also assists with issue-specific communications and works with campus and System FOIA contacts to promote transparency. He is an avid reader and woodworker, and his greatest interests are whatever his kids are into on that particular day.
Katie Watson leads campuswide communications in close collaboration with colleges, departments and units. She also serves as the chief communications officer for the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Administration and Operations and supports major projects for the Office of the Chancellor. Katie holds a master's degree in information science.
E. Todd Wilson oversees Multimedia Services, which includes Video Services, Photo Services and Big Ten Network non-athletic programming (documentaries) for the U of I. He also curates content on the campus homepage and in the online directory, A-Z list and calendars. Outside of work, he is an adventure motorcyclist, camper and friend of furry critters.
Jim Wilson oversees Web Services and helps to create and support Webtools, a suite of marketing and communications solutions available to units and departments. Jim enjoys juggling and getting out and exploring new places.