Office of the Vice President for External Relations and Communications

Our Mission

The External Relations and Communications (ERC) office builds, broadens and protects the University of Illinois System’s brand and reputation and advances its priorities, fostering broad-based understanding, engagement, support, advocacy, and investment to enable the transformative power of the system to grow and positively impact lives at scale.

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Our Portfolio

Advocacy

Engage alumni, students, faculty, staff, and supporters to advocate for greater governmental support through the Illinois Connection legislative advocacy network

Federal Relations

Work closely with the U.S. Congress, the Administration, and federal agencies to advance the missions of the U of I System

State and Local Relations

Work closely with the Illinois General Assembly and local officials to advance the missions of the U of I System

Brand and Marketing

Manage the U of I System brand and marketing strategy with a focus on stakeholder influence and reputation enhancement, through traditional and digital channels

Communications and Media Relations

Craft strategic messaging and work with stakeholders in order to communicate priorities of the system, the president, and the board of trustees

FOIA Administration

Process responses for all Freedom of Information Act public records requests submitted to the system or any of the three universities

In the Middle of It

Altogether Extraordinary.

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This site is currently in development as the former offices of governmental relations and university relations transition to one unit. To reach a staff member, please select form the portfolio of services for contact information or email infosource@uillinois.edu or govrelations@uillinois.edu.