About OSI & Staff

The Office of Strategic Initiatives (OSI) emerged as an extension of SHIELD Illinois, a groundbreaking initiative introduced by the University of Illinois System. Originating from the need to provide free, non-invasive diagnostic tests for the COVID-19 virus through saliva collection, SHIELD Illinois laid the foundation for OSI’s inception.

As OSI transitioned from SHIELD Illinois, the unwavering commitment to raising a better community, advancing public health, actively contributing to educational equality, and fostering the future of work placement remained its core mission.

OSI continues to strive for excellence by spearheading multiple projects and initiatives, aiming to make a better and safer Illinois.

Ronald S. Watkins
Associate Vice President of Strategic Initiatives
ronw@uillinois.edu

Jill Sanders
Assistant to Associate Vice President of Strategic Initiatives
jsandrs@uillinois.edu

Rhiannon Clifton
Senior Director of Integration
rclifton@uillinois.edu

Jamie Fenbert
Director of Strategic Projects
jfenbert@uillinois.edu

Andrew Greta
Senior Director of Finance and Strategy
agreta@uillinois.edu

Andrew Jon Gum
Business Analyst
agum3@uillinois.edu

Jonathan E. Miller
Storyteller and Content Strategist
jem16@uillinois.edu

Maya Nelson
Wastewater Operations Supervisor
mayarn2@uillinois.edu

Anna Pinsoneault
Director of Public Health and Research Partnerships
annap@uillinois.edu