College of ACES Annual Report 2023-2024

COLLEGE OF AGRICULTURAL, CONSUMER & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES | ANNUAL REPORT 23-24

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Table of Contents 05 06 08

Letter from the dean About ACES Content 08 Bringing groundbreaking, interdisciplinary projects to life 10 Pumping new life into the heart of ACES 12 Riggs crafts beer with grain developed by ACES 15 Campus treasure supports children, teaching, research, and human thriving 18 Illinois Extension adds value across the state and beyond 20 A revolutionary renovation for 21st century learning 22 A new office supports diversity, equity, and inclusion 24 Online programs transform education and empower careers 26 Public impact through leadership and engagement

46 48

33 Discovering human solutions to major environmental problems 37 International Programs supports ACES’ global reach 38 MANRRS students find success, community in ACES 39 Hundreds gather to dedicate Dr. Doug Parrett Memorial Arena 42 Helping neurodivergent students succeed 43 Four pillars support student success, cultivate industry leaders 44 Strengthening corporate partnerships to fuel ACES’ mission

ACES by the Numbers Recognition

In the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, we strive to make a meaningful impact by living out our core values. Each story in this annual report reflects our dedication to these principles and highlights our collective achievements: I N N O VAT I O N

D I S CO V E R Y

CO M M U N I T Y

MOMENTUM

We break boundaries and challenge convention. We develop and deliver ideas that positively impact the world.

We provide access to countless paths of exploration and support people in pursuit of their passions.

We are building a global community that supports one another and works together to serve the greater good.

We move forward fearlessly, unafraid to question the past in order to build a brighter future for all.

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4 | COLLEGE OF ACES

Letter from the dean DEAR FRIENDS AND COLLEAGUES, It is with great pride and enthusiasm that I introduce the inaugural annual report for the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences (ACES) at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.

As we reflect on the past year, we are reminded of our "One College" ethos — a foundational belief that underscores everything we do and speaks to our shared vision for the future. Together, we have made remarkable strides in advancing our mission to enhance the wellbeing of our society through innovative research, transformative education, and impactful outreach.

This annual report is a celebration of our achievements and a reminder of the journey ahead, grounded by our core values: Innovation: At the heart of our college is a relentless pursuit of new ideas and solutions. This year, we have seen groundbreaking research initiatives that address some of the most pressing issues of our time: from food security to health to strengthening family bonds and beyond. Our faculty, staff, and students continue to push the boundaries of what is possible, turning visionary concepts into tangible realities.

Discovery: Within the College of ACES, we celebrate individual paths to discover unique strengths, passions, and purpose. Whether it’s through hands-on experiences, mentorship, or academic exploration, our college fosters an environment for personal growth as well as academic achievement. We are not only discovering new knowledge but also empowering each member of our community to make a difference.

Community: Our college is a diverse and inclusive community, united by a common goal to make a positive impact. Through collaborative projects, outreach programs, and engagement initiatives, we have built bridges across our campus and beyond, enriching our community and countless others.

“ As we reflect on the past year, we

are reminded of our “One College” ethos — a foundational belief that underscores everything we do and speaks to our shared vision for the future.”

Momentum: Progress is not a momentary burst but a sustained effort. Our momentum is evident in our achievements and steady progress toward our strategic goals. Unwavering support from alumni, friends, and partners make this transformative work possible. We are not merely keeping pace with the changes around us; we are driving them, ensuring that our college remains at the forefront of innovation and impact.

We invite you to join us in our continued pursuit of excellence and to contribute to our ongoing story. As one college, we will continue to innovate, discover, build community, and maintain the momentum that drives us toward a brighter future.

Thank you for your unwavering support and commitment to ACES. We look forward to another year of shared success and impactful progress.

With warmest regards,

Germán Bollero Professor, Dean, and Robert A. Easter Chair College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

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About ACES The College of ACES is addressing the world’s most pressing challenges by fostering sustainable agriculture, advancing human well-being, and promoting environmental stewardship. We are a diverse and dynamic community dedicated to making an impact locally and globally.

The Division of Nutritional Sciences (DNS) is an interdisciplinary research unit that advances our understanding of nutrition and its effects on health and disease, bridging the gap between basic research and practical applications.

The impact of ACES extends far beyond our classrooms and laboratories. Our work influences policies, shapes industries, and improves lives. We contribute to a better future by preparing the next generation of leaders and innovators, advancing scientific knowledge, and serving communities across Illinois and beyond.

The Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communications (ALEC) Program prepares students for careers focused on developing and educating people, organizations, and communities to foster an informed and empowered society.

ACADEMIC DEPARTMENTS AND UNITS The Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering (ABE) integrates engineering principles with biological sciences to develop sustainable food, energy, and environmental solutions through technical advances.

The Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics (ACE) focuses on the economic and policy aspects of agriculture and consumer behavior, providing insights that shape sound financial decisions and policies.

The Department of Animal Sciences (ANSC) addresses the complexities of animal health, nutrition, and genetics, driving advancements in animal welfare, livestock production, and human health.

The Department of Crop Sciences (CPSC) leads the way in plant breeding, biotechnology, and crop and soil management, ensuring the productivity, sustainability, and security of food systems.

The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN) explores the science of food production, safety, and human nutrition, contributing to a healthy and accessible food supply.

The Department of Human Development and Family Studies (HDFS) examines the dynamics of family life and human development, providing insights into the social and emotional well-being of individuals, families, and communities.

The Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Sciences (NRES) aims to understand and manage our urban, managed, and natural resources, promoting human involvement in conservation and sustainable practices.

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The Sustainability in Food and Environmental Systems (SFES) Program explores sustainable food supply chains through a multidisciplinary curriculum, integrating expertise from all ACES academic units.

ILLINOIS EXTENSION AND 4-H Illinois Extension is our outreach arm, bringing university expertise to communities statewide and ensuring that our research and knowledge support those who need it most. Extension provides practical education and innovative solutions in agriculture, natural resources, youth development, family well-being, and more through a statewide network of Extension specialists, local offices, and online resources.

The cornerstone of Extension’s youth engagement efforts is Illinois 4-H, the state’s largest out-of-school youth organization.

ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES Office of the Dean leads strategy and oversight, aligning college goals with the university mission.

Office of Academic Programs (OAP) ensures student success through curriculum development, advising, and career services.

Office of Research (OR) supports innovation, providing resources and guidance for research initiatives.

Office of Human Resources (HR) manages employee recruitment, development, and well-being.

Office of Technology Services ensures robust digital infrastructure and IT support.

Office of Marketing Communications (MarCom) grows the ACES brand through creative, impactful, and actionable marketing and communications efforts.

Office of International Programs (OIP) fosters global engagement through international research collaborations.

Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (ODEI) ensures all students, staff, and faculty are welcomed and supported.

Office of Advancement (ADV) develops relationships to secure financial support and enhance our reputation.

Office of Business and Administration oversees finances, operations, resource allocation, and policy compliance.

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I N N O VAT I O N

60.5M

$

TOTAL RESEARCH FUNDING

Bringing groundbreaking, interdisciplinary projects to life When the Illinois Fermentation and Agriculture Biomanufacturing (iFAB) Tech Hub announced $680 million in partner commitments last March, dignitaries including Governor J.B. Pritzker, Congresswoman Nikki Budzinski, and Chancellor Robert J. Jones gathered at the Integrated Bioprocessing Research Laboratory for a press conference. In July, the Economic Development Administration (EDA) announced a $51 million grant to cement iFAB’s future as the heart of biomanufacturing in the U.S.

Beth Conerty, associate director of business development at IBRL, said the iFAB Tech Hub funding request was quite complicated, with seven component projects and overarching hub material that all required separate submission to the EDA. The OR stepped in to help with budget organization, required documentation, and technical support.

But none of the pomp and circumstance would have been possible without the diligent behind-the-scenes work of the Office of Research.

ASSOCIATE DEAN FOR RESEARCH

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iFAB is just one example of how the OR contributes to the ACES research enterprise on a daily basis.

Led by new Associate Dean for Research Rodney Johnson, the OR nimbly manages land-grant capacity

“ This role is an opportunity

to support faculty and staff in ACES to grow and support a dynamic research portfolio addressing state, national, and global issues related to food and agriculture, families and communities, energy, and the environment.”

funds; facilitates extramural and internal seed funding for interdisciplinary research projects; provides opportunities for faculty and student education; serves as a hub for data management; and oversees centers and facilities on campus and across the state.

Johnson, who led ANSC as department head for six years and served as director of DNS for nine years, took the helm in June, replacing retired Interim Associate Dean Alex Winter-Nelson.

“This role is an opportunity to support faculty and staff in ACES to grow and support a dynamic research portfolio addressing state, national, and global issues related to food and agriculture, families and communities, energy, and the environment,” Johnson said.

The team has helped secure several multimillion-dollar grants from the USDA, National Institutes of Health, and other federal sources for projects focused on farmer mental health, infant nutrition, and more.

In addition to supporting proposals for extramural funding, the OR manages funds earmarked for landgrant institutions in the form of USDA capacity funds.

Some of these monies are funneled into the competitive Future Interdisciplinary Research Explorations (FIRE) award program, which provides seed funding for interdisciplinary teams approaching problems through creativity and collaboration.

OR runs the ACES Research Academy, a program for new faculty in ACES to learn the ins and outs of grant writing, publications, time management, leadership, and more. To date, the program has served more than 180 faculty.

In 2023, OR hired Associate Director of STEM Program Implementation Britt Carlson to develop new pathways into STEM for underrepresented undergraduates coming into ACES and foster connections with minority-serving institutions for meaningful and mutually beneficial research collaborations.

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M O M EN T U M

Pumping new life into the heart of ACES PLANS FOR A $50 MILLION MUMFORD HALL RENOVATION ARE IN MOTION Climbing the well-worn marble stairs, one cannot help but think of the generations of students and faculty who have tread these hallowed halls.

Mumford Hall has been called the heartbeat of the college. It’s the flagship of the College of ACES, home to the dean, administrative offices, and the Department of ACE. Dedicated on Jan. 25, 1924, the new Agriculture Building was the first building designed and constructed by Charles A. Platt, a landscape gardener/architect, who was entrusted with envisioning a comprehensive campus plan for the university. The building was renamed Mumford Hall in 1946 after the former dean Herbert Windsor Mumford, who served in the role from 1922 to 1938.

Echoing the sentiments of supervising campus architect James White, Platt’s plan called for cohesive building designs to provide unity across the burgeoning campus.

Mumford Hall’s Georgian Revival style, which epitomizes rectangular and symmetrical design, set the tone for buildings to come.

“With a steeply pitched green slate roof, an abundance of chimneys and dormers, and a red-brick exterior trimmed in limestone, the three-story (plus attic) new Agriculture Building [Mumford Hall] would determine the look of the south campus,” according to “An Illini Place: Building the University of Illinois Campus.”

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“But Platt’s great innovation was massing or clustering buildings with ornamental gateways and enclosed cozy inner courtyards connecting the clusters, like little neighborhoods. Platt’s imposing structures — think Mumford Hall and the Library — had both public and private faces. On the side facing the broad malls — grassy open spaces — they presented a monumental front with uniform high cornice lines. But the view from the courtyards was more human and homey, with lower cornice lines and less detail.”

A century later, Platt’s thoughtful facade is mired by noisy, inefficient air conditioning units, and the original grand entrance has long been closed off. But plans are underway to revitalize Mumford Hall to meet the college’s needs for the next 100 years.

A feasibility study, completed in September 2023, provides a renovation roadmap that will restore the building’s grandeur from the inside out. The original central entrance will be reopened — with a brand-new plaza opening to the quad on the west side of the building — to welcome students into a redesigned first floor featuring much-needed spaces for student engagement and collaboration. Currently, the plans also call for a coffee bar where students, faculty, and staff can congregate and refuel. The work will also incorporate energy-efficient

50M

$

TRANSFORMATIVE RENOVATION PLANNED FOR MUMFORD HALL

heating, ventilation, and air conditioning; a modern fire sprinkler system; new windows; tuckpointing — and more.

The project is estimated to cost $50 million, which encompasses $6.5 million from Academic Facilities Maintenance Fund Assessment (AFMFA) student contributions for window replacements and tuckpointing.

AFMFA helps address deferred maintenance projects on the Urbana campus with the goal of making a transformative impact in highly utilized teaching and learning environments. The college has begun fundraising for the remaining $43.5 million, including naming opportunities for the various study, collaboration, and classroom spaces.

Upon securing the necessary funding, an expert team of architects and engineers will be engaged to initiate the formal design phase with comprehensive planning, conceptualization, and meticulous documentation. These plans and blueprints will be transformed into tangible renovations during construction.

By pumping more resources and amenities into Mumford Hall, the college will ensure that it remains a vital center for student success and well-being for the next century.

“The revitalization of Mumford Hall will make this building the heart of our college, uniting all students under one roof regardless of their majors,” said College of ACES Dean Germán Bollero. “This transformation will create a central hub where everyone can come together, fostering a stronger, more connected ACES community.”

Make a contribution to the Mumford Hall renovation project online at go.aces.illinois.edu/Give. To explore naming and other giving opportunities, contact the Office of Advancement at 217-333-9355 or acesadvancement@illinois.edu.

“ This transformation will create a central

hub where everyone can come together, fostering a stronger, more connected ACES community.”

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CO M M U N I T Y

Riggs crafts beer with grain developed by ACES Riggs Beer Company brews are crafted with grain developed by ACES — their Hefeweizen features Erisman soft red winter wheat developed by CPSC Professor Emeritus Frederic Kolb and an American Lager brewed with a special low-oil corn created by CPSC Professor Stephen Moose.

Co-founded by ACES alum Matt Riggs, who received the 2023 ABE Young Alumni Achievement Award, the craft brewery transforms his family farm-raised grain into American and German beers sold locally.

Riggs said lower oil raw materials make the product more flavor-stable. Large breweries mechanically remove oil from the seed and reserve the starch for brewing, but this process is too costly for small breweries like his.

Riggs decided to seek out a low-oil corn, and through a quick Google search, discovered a publication from Moose’s lab. He did not expect to find the solution just a few miles away.

The low-oil corn, unofficially coined “ACES beer corn” by Moose, was developed by chance through one of the first and longest-running plant genetics experiments. In 1896, crop scientists began breeding a line of high-oil corn to improve the chemical composition of livestock feed. As an academic exercise, they bred low-oil corn as well. Since then, crop scientists have maintained the experiment to see how much (and little) oil a corn plant could sustain.

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“ This corn is uniquely qualified to be

used in our beer since it was developed at my alma mater. The Burr white corn variety that started the experiment, the original genetics of the corn we grow today, originated just three miles from my family farm in the 1800s.”

Fast forward to 2017, Moose received a request from Matt Riggs, who it turns out, was a student in Moose’s biotechnology course a decade earlier. Shortly after, Moose began the years-long process of hybridizing the heirloom low-oil corn to modern corn varieties, creating the perfect product for the Riggs family to grow on their sesquicentennial farm.

“This corn is uniquely qualified to be used in our beer since it was developed at my alma mater,” Riggs said.

“The Burr white corn variety that started the experiment, the original genetics of the corn we grow today, originated just three miles from my family farm in the 1800s.”

Illinois Scholars at Risk brings Cameroon scientist to ABE

ACES welcomes largest new faculty cohort in living memory Since the summer of 2022, ACES welcomed 44 new and reclassified faculty members, its largest cohort of new faculty in living memory. Seven more have accepted offers and will start in the new year.

The faculty joined all of ACES’ academic departments, with titles ranging from adjunct instructor to assistant professor.

The hiring frenzy reflects an enrollment boom in ACES and across campus.

“We are thrilled to welcome this class of new faculty to the ACES family,” said ACES Dean Germán Bollero. “They are joining hundreds of top-ranked educators in ACES who are committed to training the next generation of leaders with research-based information and hands-on experiences.”

Leaving behind a separatist war, Eric Zama, an environmental scientist from Cameroon, continues his academic work in ACES through the Illinois Scholars at Risk program.

Zama arrived on the Illinois campus in September 2023 for a one-year appointment working with ABE Professor Richard Cooke on a research project to remove excess nutrients from agricultural drainage water.

Zama and Cooke use biochars — the material leftover after burning biomass — to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from water. They are working on developing designer biochar for improving soil fertility and carbon sequestration.

Illinois Scholars at Risk, part of the global Scholars at Risk network, temporarily offers safe haven to scholars from conflict zones.

Since joining the network in 2022, Illinois has brought seven scholars to campus. Visitors are supported financially by their host departments and the Office of the Provost.

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M O M EN T U M

160 CHILDREN

50

INTERNSHIPS

3,000

STUDENT OBSERVATIONS

“ The CDL provides opportunities for students to not just

learn about kids and their early development, but to watch it unfold in an unstaged environment — it’s a real-world, real-life, real-time, real-everything immersion.”

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Campus treasure supports children, teaching, research, and human thriving In bright, friendly classrooms, you’ll see infants, toddlers, and preschoolers playing and enjoying activities designed to stimulate young minds. But children aren’t the only ones learning — students and faculty from across campus use the Child Development Laboratory as a critical tool for teaching and research, fulfilling a mission that sets the CDL apart from lab schools nationwide.

“The CDL is viewed as a model lab school by our peers at other institutions. Most major institutions have a laboratory school of some sort, but as far as being integrated into teaching and research activities to support the academic mission of the host institution, our model is unique in having an impact campus-wide,” said former CDL director Brent McBride, who retired in 2024.

BENEFITING CHILDREN THROUGHOUT THE COMMUNITY Embedded in the Department of HDFS, the CDL serves 160 children every year as a high-quality daycare and preschool. Parents agree to the research and teaching components of CDL’s mission and quickly get used to finding research consent forms in kids’ cubbies or hearing about new student teachers in the classroom.

The makeup of the CDL population is carefully balanced to reflect the diversity of the local community. At least 25% of families receive financial support, ensuring greater representation, which McBride says strengthens conclusions drawn from CDL research.

A CRITICAL TOOL FOR EDUCATION Each year, the facility hosts more than 50 classes from 13 departments across campus, averaging more than 3,000 student observations, 1,300 student class projects, and 50 internships. The CDL provides a crucial training ground for early childhood education students in the College of Education. Other units preparing students for

teaching careers, such as in dance or music, also use the CDL to gain experience.

“The CDL provides opportunities for students to not just learn about kids and their early development, but to watch it unfold in an unstaged environment — it’s a real-world, reallife, real-time, real-everything immersion,” said Ramona Oswald, head of HDFS.

A TESTBED FOR CAMPUS-WIDE RESEARCH ENDEAVORS In addition to teaching, more than a dozen faculty, along with undergraduate and graduate researchers from eight campus units, use the CDL as a critical site for data collection to conduct paradigm-shifting research.

Undergraduate researchers in art and design have tested toy design, and graduate students in nutrition have studied responsive feeding in infants. Professors in speech and hearing sciences plan to deploy artificial intelligence to identify potential language delays or disabilities. The CDL’s unique population, protocols, and facilities make it all possible.

“The CDL is a flagship — it puts human thriving at the forefront, and it says there is a science to child development. That’s the rock we stand on. It matters that people are trained and that facilities and curriculum are high quality. It really is a treasure that should not be taken for granted,” Oswald concluded.

A capital campaign is launching to build a new, modern CDL facility to support the laboratory’s mission, which will be an expansion of the Early Childhood Development Facility built in 2003.

Make a contribution to the CDL project online at go.aces.illinois.edu/Give. To explore naming and other giving opportunities, contact the Office of Advancement at 217-333-9355 or acesadvancement@illinois.edu.

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I N N O VAT I O N

Common hair loss and prostate drug may also cut heart disease risk in men and mice The drug finasteride, also known as Propecia or Proscar, treats male-pattern baldness and enlarged prostate in millions of men worldwide. But Assistant Professor Jaume Amengual (FSHN and DNS) and doctoral student David Molina Chaves found the drug may also provide a surprising and life-saving benefit: lowering cholesterol and cutting the overall risk of cardiovascular disease.

Their study found significant correlations between finasteride use and lower cholesterol levels in men taking part in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey between 2009 and 2016. And in mice taking high finasteride doses, the researchers found reductions in total plasma cholesterol, delayed atherosclerosis progression, lower inflammation in the liver, and related benefits. The next step is for physicians to start tracking cholesterol in finasteride patients or conduct a clinical trials.

Milk to the rescue for diabetics?

Project creates first insulinproducing cow In an exciting proof-of-concept study, ANSC Professor Matt Wheeler and collaborators from the Universidade de São Paulo created a transgenic cow capable of producing human insulin in her milk. The advancement could herald a new era in insulin production, one day eliminating drug scarcity and high costs for people living with diabetes. After the researchers inserted a segment of human DNA into cow embryo nuclei, a single transgenic calf was born. When the research team later induced lactation, the cow produced human proinsulin — an insulin precursor — and insulin at highly promising rates.

Wheeler envisions a 100-head herd one day supplying all the insulin needed for the country. An efficient system to collect and purify insulin products would be needed, as well as FDA approval, before transgenic cows could supply insulin. But Wheeler is confident that day is coming. The team plans to re-clone the cow and is hoping for even greater success the next time around.

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Researcher calls on Illinois landowners to participate in historic soil analysis When he heard an old barn on campus was scheduled for demolition, Andrew Margenot, a soil scientist and CPSC associate professor, went to investigate. Inside, on dusty shelves, he discovered a time capsule in the form of thousands of jars of soil from around the state, some dating as far back as 1862. It was a goldmine for Margenot.

Few long-term soil archives exceed 40 years, so as far as he can tell, the trove represents the oldest soil archive in the world. And, at 450 sampling locations spanning 21 million crop acres in Illinois, it’s the largest. Now, he’s resampling the same locations to learn how Illinois soils have changed over time.

The effort will yield unprecedented insight into the state’s soil resource base and enable improvements in soil fertility management and conservation. Check out the project’s site map, which includes sign-up links for resampling, at go.aces.illinois.edu/soil-map. Margenot is offering participating landowners the results of his soil analysis for free, a $5,000 value.

Do artificial roosts help bats?

Experts say more research is needed Artificial roosts for bats come in many forms — bat boxes, condos, bark mimics, clay roosts, and cinder block structures, to name a few — but bat experts Joy O’Keefe, NRES assistant professor and Illinois Extension specialist, and doctoral student Reed Crawford suggest the structures haven’t been studied rigorously enough and may harm bats in some scenarios. In a recent article on the topic, the researchers suggest artificial roosts could act as ecological traps, luring animals to select sub-optimal

habitats when higher-quality alternatives are available.

Artificial roosts typically don’t have the same thermal buffering capacity as tree cavities, sometimes leading to lethal overheating events. Although O’Keefe and Crawford have studied artificial roost design, they say there’s still not enough known about whether any artificial roosts can safely guard against thermal extremes, predation, parasite pressure, or other potential dangers. With all of these unknowns, O’Keefe and Crawford are calling on fellow bat experts to ask more targeted research questions.

And in the meantime, they’re asking homeowners to provide high-quality natural resources for bats on their properties.

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CO M M U N I T Y

Illinois Extension adds value across the state and beyond

has allocated $28 million through the USDA’s Local Food Purchasing Assistance program, administered via Illinois Extension’s IL-EATS program, to buy locally grown food at fair market value and distribute it at no cost to foodinsecure residents.

University of Illinois Extension is part of the nationwide Cooperative Extension Service network. A 700+ person workforce serves the state’s 102 counties through 27 multi-county units that forge partnerships, respond to local needs, and develop programs to make the state and its residents healthier, safer, and more prosperous. The university’s land-grant mission thrives through Extension’s dedication to collaboration, credibility, inclusivity, and learning — and its commitment to eight strategic priorities: Community; Health; Economy; Technology and Discovery; Environment; Partnerships; Food and Agriculture, and Workplace Excellence.

HEALTHIER FUTURES FOR LATINO YOUTH ADVANCED THROUGH INTEGRATED PROGRAMMING Researchers and educators are tackling health inequalities among Latino children, particularly high rates of childhood obesity. Extension’s Abriendo Caminos (‘Opening Pathways’) is a six-week intervention that combines nutrition, physical activity, and family wellness. The program, supported by Extension staff, community health workers, and students from ACES, has led to healthier weights among participants. In May 2024, it was recognized at the National Health Outcomes Conference.

ILLINOIS 4-H EMPOWERS LIFELONG LEARNERS

ILLINOIS AGRABILITY PROVIDES ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TO FARMERS STATEWIDE

Illinois Extension’s 4-H program provides youth with realworld experiences, a strong sense of self, and the chance to build skills to enhance their future outcomes in every corner of the state. The transformative Youth Empowering Agriculture (YEA) program, funded by a $39 million National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant, aims to prepare young people for food and ag careers; two Illinois 4-H members serve on the regional youth advisory board.

Illinois Extension’s Illinois AgrAbility supports farmers with age- or injury-related disabilities or chronic illnesses, helping them continue farming through education and assistive devices. In partnership with the Illinois Assistive Technology Program, tools like wheelchairs, ramps, and hearing aids are available through a device loan library in Springfield or online at iltech.org.

UNDERSERVED COMMUNITIES BENEFIT FROM LOCAL FARM AND FOOD SUPPORT Socially disadvantaged producers, including veterans, women, and marginalized communities, face challenges while lack of access to fresh food affects many. Illinois 18 | COLLEGE OF ACES

CLIMATE STEWARDS EMPOWER ILLINOISANS TO TACKLE CLIMATE CHANGE CHALLENGES Offered through Extension county offices several times a year, the new Illinois Extension Climate Stewards program empowers (and certifies) “Climate Stewards” statewide to lead local efforts in climate education and engagement.

Extension by the Numbers

745K+ 274

Program Attendees

5,682

657

Community Gardens

4-H Clubs

1,799

Program Volunteers

$4M+

Funds Secured for SNAP-ED Partners

$15,259,785 INTERNET ACCESS STRENGTHENS ILLINOIS COMMUNITIES Illinois Extension — in partnership with the Illinois Office of Broadband, the Benton Institute for Broadband and Society, and others — has delivered more than 90 educational webinars and assisted over 60 counties to secure state and federal grants. With Extension’s support, more than $260 million in infrastructure investments have helped reduce the digital divide in Illinois.

EXTENSION ACADEMY LAUNCHES This year marked the launch of the first-ever Extension Academy, an innovative semester-long training program designed specifically for faculty with Extension appointments. This comprehensive program build meaningful relationships and provides an in-depth understanding of the organizational structure of Extension. The program also explores funding and collaboration opportunities.

Communities Served

Volunteer Contributions

ADVANCING THE ILLINOIS EXTENSION MISSION The Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center is taking shape now. This outstanding example of visionary philanthropy will provide an organizational home for Illinois Extension. Support the effort — including additional naming opportunities throughout the facility and grounds — in the university’s welcoming arboretum.

Investments in Illinois Extension support its mission to expand research, education, and training, enhancing well-being and prosperity for all Illinois residents. Whether focused on health, youth, environment, or agriculture, Illinois Extension offers opportunities to make a difference across the state and beyond.

Learn more about how to impact the Illinois Extension mission by contacting Assistant Director for Advancement, Scott Burnsmier, at srb@illinois.edu or for 4-H gifts, contact Executive Director, Illinois 4-H Foundation, Angie Barnard, at abarnard@illinois.edu.

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M O M EN T U M

A revolutionary renovation for 21st century learning The lower level of the ACES Library, Information and Alumni Center is poised for a revolutionary makeover, turning underutilized spaces into a collaborative area with interactive classrooms for 21st century learning.

The renovation will add a large multi-use space and iFlex classroom for collaboration with remote presenters and classmates. A recording studio will allow faculty and staff to create content for online programs.

The renovation will build upon the legacy of the Academic Computing Facility that offered state-of-theart information and technology infrastructure when the library opened its doors in 2001.

The Monsanto Room, also on the lower level of the ACES Library, will be renovated into the Agricultural Communications Hub — a physical space that will house the James F. Evans Global Center for Food and Agricultural Communications. With a keen focus on enhancing the student experience, the room will include audiovisual technology and modern furniture, creating an inviting atmosphere for teamwork and idea exchange.

With $1.75 million in support from the Office of the Provost’s FY23 Investment for Growth Program, the college is reenvisioning the lower level of the ACES Library to create spaces that support learning in the evolving landscape of hybrid and online programs.

The ACES Learning Innovation Laboratory is a collaboration space, equipped with emerging technologies that will empower educators and industry leaders to design transformative learning experiences.

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Construction is expected to begin in Fall 2024 to be completed in time for classes in Spring 2025. The plans also call for a student lounge and study areas, pending additional funding.

1.75M

$

FROM THE PROVOST’S FY23 INVESTMENT FOR GROWTH PROGRAM

Illinois to create global center of excellence in food and agricultural communications In March, ACES unveiled plans to create a new global center for food and agricultural communications named after the storied agricultural communications pioneer and Illinois Professor Emeritus James F. Evans.

The James F. Evans Global Center for Food and Agricultural Communications will become a hub for training and research, offering professional development opportunities, certificate programs, and specialized training.

“ The ACES Learning

Innovation Laboratory is a collaboration space, equipped with emerging technologies that will empower educators and industry leaders to design transformative learning experiences.”

Make a contribution to the ACES Learning Innovation Laboratory project online at go.aces.illinois.edu/Give. To explore naming and other giving opportunities, contact the Office of Advancement at 217-333-9355 or acesadvancement@illinois.edu.

“I’m excited to see students working alongside experts from diverse backgrounds to tackle the most pressing communications challenges facing global food systems,” said Anna Ball, associate dean of academic programs.

Needs assessments by Illinois and the International Federation of Agricultural Journalists have shown significant communications demand in areas such as strategic and critical thinking, knowledge mobilization, multi-media production processes, and leadership training.

“We have been talking with potential stakeholders to ensure we have the best possible vision for what the center needs to make an impact globally,” Ball said. “Ultimately, the Evans Center will find new and better ways to advance food and agricultural communications to create a better, more sustainable future for producers and consumers.”

To kickstart the more than $5 million fundraising campaign, a sizable donation has been made in Evans’ name by an anonymous alum.

Contributions to the Evans Center can be made online at go.aces.illinois.edu/Evans-Center-gift.

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CO M M U N I T Y

A new office supports diversity, equity, and inclusion For Associate Dean for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Elizabeth Olson, DEI is much more than a trend or a catchphrase; it means sustained, intentional, data-driven work that appreciably benefits all ACES students, faculty, staff, alumni, and community partners.

Dean Germán Bollero initiated the Office of DEI in the summer of 2023 and sponsored a call to hire an inaugural associate dean to lead the office. The position was designed to energize the college’s DEI efforts through an action plan to advance training, recruitment, engagement, and support of all DEI work.

Olson stepped into the role in January 2024. With a multidisciplinary background in psychology, sociology, social work, and family science, she has long been engaged in DEI work as a practitioner, educator, and research faculty member. Transitioning into an administrative role means she’s excited to manifest meaningful systemic changes beyond her own scholarly work and teaching responsibilities.

DEI IS GOOD FOR ACES Olson points to the increasing diversity in the U.S. population; census data shows that younger generations are more racially diverse and report greater variability in terms of gender identity, sexual orientation, and religious affiliation. However, most institutions of higher education, including Illinois, do not yet reflect the rise of historically underrepresented minority groups in their students, faculty, or staff.

Inviting diversity is not just the right thing to do, Olson says. “While DEI work may simply be seen as a personal moral decision to support diverse groups of individuals, it is, in fact, an institutional advantage as well. Diversification of identities adds value by increasing perspectives and unique contributions to any initiative.”

Studies show diverse teams are more productive, creative, and innovative and make higher-quality decisions.

Academic papers and grant proposals authored by more diverse teams are more likely to succeed. Students taught 22 | COLLEGE OF ACES

in diverse classrooms achieve more comprehensive understanding and feel better prepared for employment.

But Olson said the advantages of diversity can’t be realized without ensuring inclusion by being actively and intentionally welcoming and respecting and listening to all members of the community. It is also crucial to promote equity by correcting harms of the past and creating present-day access and opportunities for those who have historically been denied.

A DATA-DRIVEN APPROACH Olson spent her first months on the job listening and engaging with department and college DEI committees, college leaders, and collaborators across campus to develop an action plan. Broadly, the comprehensive plan is designed to provide support for students, faculty, and staff representing diverse identities and to enhance capacity for social justice and equity work through resource building and educational programming.

Newly available data from the first-ever campus climate survey is helping to shape the plan by highlighting issues that should be prioritized in the college. This fall, Olson will release her plan and begin implementing it.

Importantly, metrics and benchmarks will be published for transparency and accountability for the office and everyone engaged in DEI work across the college.

in addition to the college-wide committee. These groups have hosted trainings, provided resources, built connections across campus and with external institutions, and initiated incentive programs to increase faculty DEI activities. Even with all of this good work, Olson says DEI efforts aren’t sustainable without accountability, infrastructure, and resources.

“We will use empirical research to evaluate the state of diversity, equity, and inclusion in the college, implement best practices, and evaluate our efforts,” Olson said.

“This work is more than just talk. And in order to walk the walk, it requires tangible supports,” she said.

DEI WORK IS FOR EVERYONE Olson has no intention of doing this work alone.

“While it is immensely beneficial for ACES to have a centralized office to lead, support, and engage in these endeavors, DEI is everyone’s work. These values and driving goals should underlie research and scholarly activities, academic programming and student supports, advancement, as well as daily staff activities across the college,” she said.

For giving information, contact the ACES Office of Advancement (217-333-9355) or make a gift online at aces. illinois.edu/give and include “ACES Diversity, Equity and Inclusion General Fund” in the “Other” field.

“ While it is immensely beneficial for

ACES to have a centralized office to lead, support, and engage in these endeavors, DEI is everyone’s work.”

Each ACES department has its own DEI committee, ANNUAL REPORT 23-24 | 23

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Online programs transform education and empower careers ACES Online Programs have significantly grown and evolved in recent years. The current suite of educational offerings emerged from long-standing online degree programs established by ALEC, CPSC, FSHN, and NRES. Expanding on these efforts, ACES Online has worked alongside all ten academic units and Illinois Extension to create a portfolio of innovative and high-quality online courses, certificates, and degree programs. ACES currently offers 19 open-learning self-paced courses, 18 graduate certificates, eight undergraduate certificates, seven master’s degrees, and one undergraduate degree that are 100% online. This rich portfolio of coursework is designed to empower adult learners to accelerate their careers, make meaningful contributions to their disciplines, and take significant strides to address global food, environmental, and societal challenges.

ACES ONLINE LEARNING EXPERIENCE Designed for non-traditional mid-career audiences, students can engage with faculty experts through selfpaced and interactive online coursework that can stack toward online certificates and degree programs.

Online students gain advanced credentials as well as knowledge and skills specific to their areas of interest, enabling them to apply for promotions in their current areas of employment or pursue new career ventures.

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EXPANDING OPPORTUNITIES: NEW GRADUATE CERTIFICATES In addition to the current options, ACES is introducing five new online graduate certificates: • Agribusiness and Sustainable Food Production Economics (ACE) • Dairy Nutrition for Udder Success (ANSC) • Food Regulations, Nutrition Policy, and Personalized Nutrition (DNS) • Land, Agriculture, and Alternative Investing (ACE) • Wetland Science and Conservation (NRES)

THE BENEFITS OF ACES ONLINE Flexible learning: ACES Online offers options that accommodate the busy schedules. Whether balancing work, family, or other commitments, these programs fit seamlessly into online learners’ lives.

Scalable education: Scalable programs allow learners to progress at their own pace, enabling them to achieve their educational goals without compromising their personal or professional responsibilities.

Stackable credentials: Stackable certificates allow learners to build upon their education incrementally, earning valuable credentials that enhance their career prospects with each step.

Faculty experts: ACES Online features outstanding faculty who are leaders in their respective disciplines, ensuring students receive a world-class education.

Career-ready preparation: Online programs provide practical, career-ready skills that meet the demands of the modern workforce. Graduates are well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges and excel in their professions.

Upskilling employees: Organizations and employers can help their employees upskill through online programs to to develop a highly skilled workforce.

“ ACES Online embodies our

commitment to making education accessible to all, regardless of their location. Through these programs, we break down barriers and offer a world-class education to those who may not have the opportunity to attend in person.

This is how we fulfill our land-grant mission — by ensuring that the transformative power of education is within reach for everyone.”

FSHN celebrates 50 years of food science master’s program Since 1973, food industry professionals have bolstered their skills and furthered their careers through FSHN’s Master of Science in Food Science, which celebrated its 50th anniversary at the Chicago Section Institute of Food Technologists Annual Expo and Symposium in November 2023.

It originated as a face-to-face program and has been available online since 2010. While FSHN also offers on-campus graduate degrees, this online program is a non-thesis option primarily intended for working professionals who are looking to expand their skill set. Its flexibility allows students to fit classes into their busy schedules while personalizing the curriculum to support their interests and career goals. Many companies even provide tuition reimbursement, said Dawn Bohn, program director and teaching associate professor in FSHN. “The program’s flexibility is exactly what I need to successfully complete my graduate coursework.

I appreciate the high academic level and faculty engagement even through a virtual format,” said current student Vanessa Herrera, a principal development scientist at Conagra Brands.

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M O M EN T U M

Public impact through leadership and engagement As part of the land grant mission, ACES leaders engage with elected officials, agencies, and stakeholders to provide information and expert advice to policymakers and to advocate for the college’s impact on the state, nation, and world.

ACES faculty and Illinois Extension staff are consulted by legislators throughout the year, serve on technical advisory panels, and host legislator tours at research facilities, Extension offices, and field sites statewide.

Widely read in Washington, the Corn Belt, and beyond, ACE and Illinois Extension’s farmdoc daily website and blog are a definitive source for commodity market analysis and ag policy, and have been particularly influential in the development of the Farm Bill.

With coordination by the U. of I. System Office of Federal Relations, Illinois Chancellor Robert J. Jones and Dean Germán Bollero joined USDA Undersecretary Chavonda Jacobs Young to brief the Illinois congressional delegation and staff on Capitol Hill on Nov. 29, 2023.

ACES works closely with the University of Illinois Research Park, whose vibrant ag tech sector makes up its largest client base, including global corporate innovation centers, venture capital firms, and startups. The annual Ag Tech Summit is a signature event featuring ACES leaders, faculty, and staff.

ACES alumni, Illinois Extension, faculty, and staff participate in Illinois Connection, a U. of I. System-led network for stakeholders to connect with state and federal legislators to advocate for the university’s impact 26 | COLLEGE OF ACES

at virtual and in-person events, such as the annual U. of I. Day at the Capitol in Springfield.

A unique “Loyal to the Soil” coalition of agricultural and environmental stakeholders, Soil and Water Conservation Districts, Extension specialists, and ACES leaders educated legislators about conservation practices, cover crops, and outreach needed to protect water quality and soil health in Illinois.

In addition, ACES, Illinois Extension, and 4-H sponsor Illinois Department of Agriculture’s annual Ag Legislative Day and participated in the Illinois Ag Legislative Roundtable, a coalition of agricultural groups convened

by Illinois Farm Bureau that coordinates, educates, and advocates with state and federal legislators about food and farm policy.

Siemer Milling Co. pledges $1M gift to propel wheat research At the 2024 Double Crop Farmers’ Forum in February, Siemer Milling Company announced a $1 million gift to launch the Siemer Milling Company Professorship and Illinois Wheat Initiative in ACES. Founded in 1882, Siemer Milling Company is a family- and employee-owned business based in Teutopolis that specializes in crafting wheat flour, bran, and germ for grain-based foods.

CPSC Assistant Professor Jessica Rutkoski will be the first to hold the professorship, which provides a salary stipend and unrestricted support to advance research priorities. The Illinois Wheat Initiative will bring together faculty to collaborate on research related to wheat cultivation in Illinois. It will help the Small Grains Improvement Lab (co-led by Rutkoski) secure technologies and staff to rapidly deliver superior soft red winter wheat varieties and information to farmers. It will also lay the foundation for proposals to secure large, multi-million-dollar research grants.

McBride Farm dedication emphasizes value of education and giving back Leadership from the College of ACES and the University of Illinois Foundation celebrated the impact of the Lucille Dunn McBride Farm — donated to UIF in 2004 — with a sign dedication ceremony on Aug. 8, 2023.

Lucille McBride, of Galesburg, donated 76 acres in Mercer County to create the “Illinois Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers, Wendell L. Farris, Raymond Kreig, and Wanda Kreig Scholarship Fund,” which supports ACES students from a 150-mile radius of Galesburg. The scholarship is awarded to students in the Department of ACE. McBride’s gift honors her farm managers, Farris (B.S. ’38, ACE), and Raymond Kreig (B.S. ’47, ACE), as well as her close friendship with the Kreig family whose children and grandchildren are alumni of the university and ACES. McBride attended Gales­burg High School, Knox Conservatory of Music, and Monmouth Col­lege. She taught piano for more than 50 years in public schools and in her home.

Cultivating food access through 4-H endowment

Larry Hageman (B.S. ’78, CPSC) is wrapping up his career by giving back to the organization that played a formative role in his development: Illinois 4-H. He created an endowed 4-H State Award to provide an annual scholarship to members engaged in food access, production, or agronomy.

Through this scholarship, Hageman aims to help shape the future of the industry that he served for decades as a research field station manager for DuPont and the FMC Corporation. His gift also honors his 4-H advisors John Bushman and Doris Kelley Christopher, who founded Pampered Chef and has funded the Doris Kelley Christopher Illinois Extension Center that will soon house Illinois 4-H. ANNUAL REPORT 23-24 | 27

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Soy expansion in Brazil linked to increase in childhood leukemia deaths Over the past decades, Brazil has become the world’s leading soybean producer, as well as the leading consumer of pesticides.

ACE Assistant Professor Marin Skidmore collaborated with researchers to show that dramatic increases in soy production and pesticide use in Brazil’s Amazon and Cerrado regions correlated with increased childhood cancer mortality.

Skidmore and her colleagues estimated that about half of pediatric deaths from acute lymphoblastic leukemia (the most common childhood bloodborne cancer) over a tenyear period may be linked to agricultural intensification and pesticides. They found that contamination of water sources from pesticide runoff is a likely source of exposure. The study doesn’t provide a direct, causal link between pesticide exposure and cancer deaths, but the researchers rule out a number of other potential correlations such as soy consumption or demographics.

Brazil is currently developing a certification program that requires pesticide applicators to undergo safety training and education.

Such programs already exist in many countries, including the United States.

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The silver bullet that wasn’t: Glyphosate’s declining weed control over 25 years Soon after corn and soybeans were engineered to withstand the herbicide glyphosate, growers across North America began planting the modified crops almost exclusively. Not long after, though, glyphosate became less and less effective against its weed targets.

A recent study led by USDA Agricultural Research Service postdoctoral researcher Chris Landau, USDA ARS Scientist and CPSC Associate Professor Marty Williams, and Illinois Extension Specialist and CPSC Professor Aaron Hager looks at glyphosate efficacy after the engineered crops were commercialized in the 1990s.

Analyzing data from longrunning herbicide evaluation trials at North American land grant institutions, the researchers document a significant and rapid decline in glyphosate control for all seven major weed species examined , particularly when glyphosate was used alone. But for trials with a pre-emergence herbicide, weed control was much more successful.

The results echo what weed scientists have said time and again: there is no silver bullet.

They recommend a diverse mix of herbicides and mechanical strategies.

How parents’ work stress affects family mealtimes and children’s development Family mealtimes are important for parents and children as a space to communicate, socialize, and build attachment relationships.

But it can be difficult for busy parents to balance family and work life. HDFS Associate Professor Karen Kramer, along with doctoral students Sehyun Ju and Qiujie Gong, explored how parents’ job stress influences their attendance at family mealtimes, and in turn, children’s socioemotional development.

The study included data from more than 1,400 dual-earner families in a nationally representative survey that traced children’s development from 9 months to kindergarten.

Children whose parents expressed higher work-related stress when the children were 2 years old had lower positive and higher negative social behaviors at ages 4 and 5. For mothers, there was a direct relationship between job stress and children’s socioemotional competency. Fathers who had higher job and financial stress were less likely to attend family mealtimes, which in turn affected their children. Future intervention programs should help both parents obtain a better balance between work and family.

Poachers beware: New online tool traces illegal lion products back to source Lion Localizer is a new conservation tool that helps protect lions across Africa — where populations have plummeted in recent decades — developed by ANSC Professor Alfred Roca, iSchool graduate student Wesley Au, and worldwide collaborators.

The team built a database comprising every sequence of relevant lion mitochondrial DNA ever published, representing dozens of studies and 146 locations across Africa and India. Now when authorities seize illegally traded teeth, claws, bones, and other body parts and extract its DNA, they can enter the information into the Lion Localizer to identify the item’s origin and allocate resources to interrupt further trafficking from the area.

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Farm stressors affect mental health of adults and adolescent children Farmers often struggle with mental health issues exacerbated by stress and uncertainty. Illinois Extension Specialist and ABE Assistant Professor Josie Rudophi found that stress on the farm extends to adolescent children as well.

What happens when cats get fat? Scientists weigh in About 60% of cats in the U.S. are overweight, which can lead to health problems such as diabetes and chronic inflammation. While many studies have investigated feline weight loss, there has been little focus on the opposite process. ANSC Professor and DNS Director Kelly Swanson studied what happens in the gastrointestinal system as cats gain weight.

The cats were fed a standard dry cat food and after two weeks of baseline measurements, they were allowed to eat as much as they wanted and started to gain weight. Swanson found that as the cats ate more, the food passed through the digestive system faster and fewer nutrients were extracted. There were also significant changes in the gut microbial composition. Understanding the metabolic and gastrointestinal changes that occur with weight gain and obesity in pets may help with future prevention and treatment plans.

NIR spectroscopy provides easy, costeffective method for food allergen testing Food allergies pose a significant health risk, and even trace amounts of allergens can trigger severe reactions.

ABE Assistant Professor Mohammed Kamruzzaman and undergraduate student Lisa Wu explored the use of nearinfrared (NIR) spectroscopy to identify the presence of

30 | COLLEGE OF ACES

In the first part of a five-year study, Rudolphi and colleagues conducted online surveys with a focus on the impact of economic stressors. In another study, Rudolphi and HDFS Assistant Professor Courtney Cuthbertson found that stressors differ for men and women; men experienced more stress related to environmental and economic conditions while women tended to have slightly higher levels of geographic isolation stress.

In response to these findings, Illinois Extension is expanding its mental health resources for farm families with resources such as the North Central Farm and Ranch Stress Assistance Center.

three common allergens — peanut, sesame, and wheat — in quinoa flour, a gluten-free grain that is often used as a wheat substitute.

NIR spectroscopy uses near-infrared light to measure the absorbance of different wavelengths. The information is analyzed through machine learning to identify the allergens and quantify their concentration. Conventional allergen detection methods involve complex laboratory testing, but spectroscopy is fast, non-invasive, inexpensive, and highly accurate. The goal is to eventually develop low-cost sensors that can be used in industry facilities, restaurants, and even homes.

Not feeling appreciation from your partner? A relationship intervention can help When we’re married or in a long-term romantic relationship, we may eventually come to take each other for granted and forget to show appreciation. HDFS Assistant Professor and Illinois Extension Specialist Allen Barton studied changes in perceived gratitude from a spouse or romantic partner over time, and whether it can be improved through relationship intervention programs.

Gratitude is an important piece of the relationship puzzle, Barton says. It is not just about being appreciative for your partner but also about feeling appreciated by your partner.

Mindfulness programs help minoritized youth develop healthy coping skills Educational programs that promote mental and physical health can help young people — particularly in environments of chronic stress and trauma exposure — learn healthy coping strategies, avoid risky behaviors, and succeed in school. A study led by HDFS Professor and Director of the Family Resiliency Center Jacinda Dariotis showed that a school-based mindfulness program is beneficial for Black high school students in urban communities.

The study analyzed data from 615 low-income couples who signed up for an online relationship intervention program.

Barton found that individuals who felt less appreciated by their partner were more likely to be older, female, married, and have children. He also found that levels of perceived gratitude improved as a result of participating in the program.

Couples seeking help with their relationship can participate in the Strong Couples Project, directed

by Barton and offered free of charge through Illinois Extension. Learn more at go.aces.illinois.edu/ Strong-Couples.

The researchers compared a mindfulness program based on meditation and breathing practices and a health program focused on nutrition and healthy behaviors. Students in the mindfulness program reported enhanced emotional intelligence, while students in both programs reported greater cognitive control. They plan to transfer skills to other contexts and share their insights with peers and family.

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59

STUDENTS IN THE HUMAN DIMENSIONS OF THE ENVIRONMENT CONCENTRATION

32 | COLLEGE OF ACES

Discovering human solutions to major environmental problems The Department of NRES trains students in conservation biology, restoration ecology, and other applied environmental sciences, but it also offers a concentration in human dimensions of the environment. The interdisciplinary concentration marries social sciences and environmental science with the goal of preparing students to understand and influence conservation behavior and policy.

When she chose the human dimensions concentration, recent graduate Danika Ford was interested in learning how to change people’s behavior and inspire them to act more sustainably. Fortunately, there was a research opportunity for that.

Ford joined the lab of NRES Professor Carena van Riper, a conservation psychologist and sustainability scientist. For two years, Ford immersed herself in research investigating behavior change around aquatic invasive species spread among anglers and water-based recreationists. Results recently appeared in Biological Invasions, Ford’s first publication.

Research experience doesn’t just build technical skills. “Students who get involved in research learn how to engage with stakeholders, including farmers, policymakers, and landowners. It’s invaluable experience,” said Chloe Wardropper, an NRES assistant professor studying conservation decisions and policies on working landscapes.

A degree in environmental social sciences is highly desirable in today’s market, said McKenzie Johnson, an NRES assistant professor who studies environmental security and justice. “There’s been a status shift where this is very desirable knowledge to have. We’re facing some pretty serious environmental problems. So, as we try to mitigate and adapt to climate change, that’s opening up a lot of career opportunities.”

The five environmental social scientists in NRES are seeing a trend toward greater integration between the social and environmental sciences, both within the department and more broadly.

They’re collaborating on projects touching on human health effects of trees in urban landscapes; water table decline and sustainable agriculture; changing behavior and enhancing communication about aquatic ecosystems; forest economics; and peace-building and land use change in Colombia.

The intention and activity around these “sticky issues,” as NRES Department Head Robert Schooley calls them, should be heartening to those who might have lost hope about the future of our environment.

“Many students come in with a very doom and gloom perspective. I think some of that is warranted, but then we can show them all of this stuff that’s happening,” Johnson said.

“Look at the meteoric rise in environmental justice and social sciences in the last 10 years.

I think increasingly, people recognize this as a really critical perspective to address the most challenging problems we’ve probably ever faced.”

“ I think increasingly,

people recognize this as a really critical perspective to address the most challenging problems we’ve probably ever faced.”

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Study finds turning food waste into bioenergy can become a profitable industry Around 30% of food is lost or wasted, costing billions of dollars each year. Most organic waste ends up in landfills, where it emits greenhouse gasses. The waste materials can be converted into renewable energy through anaerobic digestion, but this isn’t done on a large scale anywhere.

ABE Associate Professor Luis Rodriguez and doctoral student Jason Uen conducted an analysis of supply chain logistics to determine if a process of converting food waste into energy and other bioproducts could be profitable in Illinois. They found that installing anaerobic co-digesters at wastewater treatment plants could generate up to 8.3% return on investment, while significantly reducing carbon dioxide emissions. They also showed that stand-alone treatment facilities could be profitable while dealing with an important environmental concern.

Study identifies atmospheric and economic drivers of global air pollution ACE Professor Sandy Dall’erba and Associate Professor Yilan Xu studied global flows of air pollution and how they relate to economic activity in the global supply chain. The researchers traced the movement of pollutants through the atmosphere using simulations developed

by Illinois Professor Nicole Riemer.

They found that South Korea has taken several measures to reduce air pollution, yet carbon monoxide emissions from upwind neighbor China have resulted in worsening air quality. They also looked at economic drivers of pollution, finding that China’s increased production is mostly driven by domestic household demand.

Air pollution is a global concern that can’t be solved by individual countries, the researchers conclude.

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How much nitrogen does corn get from fertilizer? Less than farmers think Corn growers seeking to increase the amount of nitrogen taken up by their crop can adjust many aspects of fertilizer application, but four recent studies led by NRES Professor Richard Mulvaney and former graduate student Kelsey Griesheim show those tweaks don’t do much to improve uptake efficiency from fertilizer.

That’s because, the studies show, corn takes up the majority of its nitrogen — about 67% on average — from sources occurring naturally in soil, not from fertilizer.

In all four studies, the researchers labeled fertilizers with a naturally occurring isotope of nitrogen, known as 15N, and applied it in the field at different rates, forms, placements, and timings. After each harvest, the researchers analyzed corn biomass and grain for its nitrogen content, attributing labeled 15N to fertilizer and unlabeled nitrogen to soil sources. In the studies, which included both poor and fertile soils in Central Illinois, most of the nitrogen in corn at harvest was unlabeled. The researchers want to raise awareness to help guide producers’ decisions around purchasing and application of nitrogen-based fertilizers.

Refrigerate lettuce to reduce risk of E. coli contamination Leafy green vegetables are important sources of dietary fiber and nutrients, but they can harbor harmful pathogens.

Illinois Extension Specialist and FSHN Associate Professor Pratik Banerjee and Mengyi Dong, a former graduate student, examined factors that affect E. coli contamination on five leafy greens: romaine lettuce, green-leaf lettuce, spinach, kale, and collards.

They found that susceptibility was determined by a combination of storage temperature and leaf surface properties such as roughness and natural wax coating. E. coli grows very fast on lettuce at room temperature but declines sharply with refrigeration at 4 degrees Celsius (39 F). For

waxy greens like kale and collard, E. coli grows slower under warmer temperatures, but it can survive longer under refrigeration. Even so, these vegetables are overall less susceptible to E. coli contamination than lettuce.

The researchers emphasize that fresh produce is part of a healthy diet. Follow food safety guidelines, wash food thoroughly, store it in the refrigerator, and pay attention to safety recalls.

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11

SEED GRANTS PROVIDED TO ACES FACULTY

TOTALING

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55k

$

International Programs supports ACES’ global reach The Office of International Programs supports global research, education, and outreach. Led by Acting Associate Dean of International Programs Mary Arends-Kuenning, OIP helps ACES faculty, staff, and students procure international funding; builds linkages with key international collaborators; administers educational opportunities; and organizes international training programs, workshops, lectures, and visits.

HOSTING A GLOBAL COMMUNITY Bringing international constituents and stakeholders to campus is one function of OIP, providing opportunities for research synergies and enriching student experiences.

United States Agency for International Development Counselor Clinton D. White, along with a delegation of five colleagues, visited campus in October 2023 to meet with students and faculty and present the annual ACES Distinguished International Lecture. Students embraced the opportunity to interact with USAID’s highest-ranking career foreign service officer during the visit.

In collaboration with the European Union Center, OIP is in its second year of coordinating the U.S.-based portion of the U.S.-German Forum on the Future of Agriculture, initiated by the Aspen Institute Germany. This project promotes transatlantic dialogue on common challenges for agriculture and rural regions to pave the way for a more sustainable future. In June 2023, OIP hosted a German delegation at Illinois. In May 2024, a group of German and American farmers and researchers participated in virtual meetings and an in-person seminar in Kiel, Germany.

With the goal of eventually welcoming more Illinois students to its campus in Japan, a delegation from Kyushu University visited campus in March 2024. OIP organized a robust schedule for the three delegates to tour campus facilities and meet with colleagues who share their research interests. The Kyushu delegation also hosted an informational session for students.

GLOBAL FOOD SECURITY INTERNSHIPS AND FELLOWSHIPS This internship pairs undergraduates with ACES faculty and staff to work on food and nutritional-security projects,

allowing them to get involved in international work early in their academic careers. The interns also meet as a group each month, attend college events, and engage with visitors to campus. Through OIP’s fellowship programs, exceptional graduate students can receive up to $12,000 to conduct their thesis research in a developing country.

FUNDING PROGRAMS AND GRANTS OIP coordinates several grant programs that are funded by generous donors, including the Arlys Conrad Endowment fund. International Graduate Grants provide up to $4,000 to conduct research abroad as part of a thesis, dissertation, or other research project. To foster connections between ACES faculty and their colleagues around the world, the OIP Seed Grant Program supports projects that have the potential to develop into larger, sustainable efforts.

ACES GLOBAL ACADEMY This long-standing training program allows participants to engage in a series of scholarly activities to increase the international impact of their work. During 2023-2024, nine faculty and staff built ties with French collaborators to work towards sustainable solutions for climate change, agriculture, household well-being, and global food system resiliency. The program included a series of on-campus seminars, roundtable discussions, and a capstone visit to partner institutions in France.

“ Our global collaborations are

more than just partnerships; they are bridges that connect innovation and knowledge across borders, enriching our students’ learning while helping to solve global challenges.”

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CO M M U N I T Y

MANRRS students find success, community in ACES In March, hundreds of high school and university students from around the country convened in Chicago for the 38th annual Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences (MANRRS) Training Conference and Career Expo.

Among them were 22 students representing MANRRSIllinois, a Registered Student Organization within ACES advised by OAP’s Roxanne Patiño. Of those, five took top honors as first-, second-, and third-prize contest winners in categories such as public speaking, oral research presentations, and more. The winners were Ashley Equíhua, junior in FSHN; Elaine Guel, senior in NRES; Karime Beltrán Gutiérrez, freshman in ANSC; Nguyen Ha, senior in NRES; and Esmeralda López, senior in ANSC. But involvement in MANRRS-Illinois is about much more than attending conferences and winning awards. The

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organization provides a deep sense of belonging both on campus and with a network that extends nationwide and throughout the world.

“Being part of MANRRS has connected me with likeminded individuals, leading to lifelong friendships. Here, I feel valued and empowered, knowing that my voice matters and that I have what it takes to thrive in my chosen field down the road,” Beltrán Gutiérrez said.

López added, “MANRRS helped me find my voice, my confidence, and my leadership skills. Through MANRRS, I’ve learned there are many people like me trying to solve big issues.”

For more information about the organization, visit go.aces.illinois.edu/AR23-MANRRS.

Hundreds gather to dedicate Dr. Doug Parrett Memorial Arena On March 8, more than 300 people gathered to dedicate the “Dr. Doug Parrett Memorial Arena” in the historic Stock Pavilion. The celebration honored the life and 49year career of beef production professor and livestock judging icon Doug Parrett.

In addition to remarks from ACES leadership, faculty, and alumni, Parrett’s family unveiled bronze plaques and a large banner commemorating the arena’s new namesake.

Parrett came to Illinois as a freshman in 1969 and stayed for his master’s and doctoral degrees. In 1981, Parrett took a faculty position in ANSC. He served in many roles, including educator, livestock judging coach, Illinois Extension specialist, research collaborator, and interim department head.

The Dr. Doug Parrett Memorial Scholarship Fund was established to support members of the livestock judging team. Contribute online at ansc.illinois.edu/give by putting the fund’s name in the “Other” field.

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Mexican black and pinto beans high in healthy compounds FSHN Professor Elvira de Mejia oversaw a study exploring the composition of seed coat extracts from black and pinto bean varieties unique to the Chiapas region of Southern Mexico. The beans are heirlooms preserved among Mayan communities and grown by indigenous farmers.

Study finds corn genome can gang up on multiple pathogens at once In a changing climate, corn growers need to be ready for anything, including new and shifting disease dynamics. Because it’s impossible to predict which damaging disease will pop up in a given year, corn with resistance to multiple diseases would be a huge win for growers. Now, CPSC researchers are moving the industry closer to that goal.

De Mejia and visiting scholar David Fonseca Hernandez found that the black beans had high quantities of anthocyanin and the pinto beans were high in phenolic compounds. These properties, present in the seed coat pigment that gives the beans their dark red or black coloring, have antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects that promote health. The seed coat extracts can also be used as additives in the food industry or in cosmetics, the researchers said.

The study was conducted in collaboration with Luis Mojica, research professor in Mexico. Fonseca attended Illinois through I-MMAS, a program created to increase recruitment of Mexican and Mexican-American students to the University of Illinois System.

Goss’s wilt, a bacterial disease, and fungal diseases gray leaf spot, northern corn leaf blight, and southern corn leaf blight are important to growers across the Midwestern U.S. and, in some cases, globally. Study author Tiffany Jamann, associate professor in CPSC, said the team not only found regions of the genome conferring resistance to each disease, they also identified a handful of experimental corn lines that were resistant to all four. These findings should help the industry develop materials with resistance to multiple diseases at once.

Roadmap to scale up urban agriculture More than two-thirds of the global population is expected to live in urban areas by 2050, and the resilience of these areas may be compromised by their heavy reliance on imported food. In a recent paper, NRES Assistant Professor Chloe Wardropper and collaborators say increasing urban agriculture could reinforce the sustainability and resilience of urban regions in the future, but they note there are open questions about how best to scale up and what environmental, health, and equity concerns would need to be addressed.

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The study proposes a framework of three interconnected phases — education, institutionalization, and market growth — to better understand and shape urban agriculture in the future. Wardropper says urban agriculture is not a panacea; urban-rural connections will remain important for global food security and consumption. But the authors emphasize all the tools in the toolbox will be needed to ensure sustainability and resilience under climate change.

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D IS CO V ER Y

Helping neurodivergent students succeed Individuals who are neurodivergent face a rate of about 80% unemployment or underemployment. But awareness of the array of talents and skills that neurodivergent individuals bring to the workplace is growing.

The Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative (INI) supports admitted students who identify with any neurodivergent condition with the goal of helping students succeed academically, socially, and professionally as well as maintain mental health and increase neuroinclusivity across campus.

“The Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative is transforming the college experience for neurodivergent students, helping them thrive academically and prepare for meaningful careers,” said HDFS Professor Jeanne Kramer, creator and director of the INI program.

INI is primarily funded by student fees, the College of ACES/HDFS, and a contribution from State Farm. INI is a four-year program that accepts up to 20 students each year, until it reaches full capacity at 80 students.

“We need additional support to fully fund the program and expand its reach. We invite donors and corporate partners to join us in empowering these remarkable

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students by providing resources, opportunities, and mentorship that will help them unlock their full potential and succeed in the workforce,” Kramer added.

During their first semester on campus, INI students take a course on academic strategies that teaches skills such as project planning, teamwork, self-advocacy, and stress management. INI also offers weekly social events that bring together neurodivergent students from across campus.

INI students also take a pre-employment seminar course that features industry partners with neurodiversity hiring initiatives and fosters skills such as resume writing and workplace readiness.

More information is available at ini.illinois.edu. Donate online at go.aces.illinois.edu/INI-gift to support the Illinois Neurodiversity Initiative.

Four pillars support student success, cultivate industry leaders Enrollment numbers continue to rise, illustrating growing demand for an ACES education. While world-class majors are the foundation of an ACES education, the total student experience is a focus for Associate Dean for Academic Programs Anna Ball, who is building support for holistic student development across four core areas. But for Ball, success is rooted in measurable outcomes.

“Eventually, we want to assess these competencies before students come to ACES and upon graduation to quantify the value we’ve added to their journey,” Ball said. “We’re creating a roadmap to intentional growth and enrichment, shaping well-rounded graduates who are ready to excel in a diverse and dynamic world.”

EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING Ball’s vision is for every student to graduate with experiential learning opportunities that build three core competencies: problem-solving, communication, and teamwork. ACES has received a grant from the USDA to train faculty on curriculum development for these realworld, high-impact courses.

“We’re actively expanding this experiential learning space and equipping faculty with the tools to develop courses for students to engage with external clients and future employers in authentic ways,” Ball said.

LEADERSHIP ENRICHMENT The college offers a leadership studies minor, covering leadership theories and their applications, that is open to all undergraduate students. Currently, 131 students from across campus are enrolled.

“The leadership minor complements content knowledge in their major by equipping students with the essential interpersonal, communication, and problem-solving skills that employers seek in students from all majors and career pathways,” said Jenn Smist, who oversees the minor.

In 2021, the college reenvisioned its prestigious Jonathan Baldwin Turner (JBT) Scholar program to become a valueadded experience for 30 high-achieving students.

GLOBAL ENGAGEMENT Global engagement experiences, abroad and on campus, abound in ACES. With approximately 50 ACES-led programs available, every student can find something that aligns with their interests and goals. A third of ACES students participate in study abroad as part of their undergraduate experience.

This was the first year that the International Business Immersion Program, led by ACE professor Meredith Blumenthal, joined the college’s collection of Illinois Global Classroom courses that connect students in different countries to work on collaborative projects.

Other recent examples include ABE Professor Luis Rodriguez and the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez working on engineering for disaster resilience, and HDFS senior instructor Jan Brooks and the University of the Western Cape in South Africa designing programming for pediatric and youth projects near Cape Town.

INCLUSIVE INTELLIGENCE Inclusive intelligence refers to the ability to recognize, understand, and value diverse perspectives and experiences, fostering an environment where everyone feels respected, included, and empowered.

ACES is already home to a thriving and nationally recognized chapter of Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences.

Now, Associate Dean Elizabeth Olson is on board to head the Office of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion to help departments grow this pillar, beginning with detailed curriculum scans and evaluating identified metrics.

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D IS CO V ER Y

Strengthening corporate partnerships to fuel ACES’ mission The College of ACES relies on robust corporate partnerships to carry out our mission and provide enriching student experiences, advance groundbreaking research, develop the workforce, and extend our outreach in Illinois and beyond.

STUDENT ENGAGEMENT, ACCESS AND SUPPORT Corporate partners play a crucial role in helping ACES empower students from diverse backgrounds through hands-on learning opportunities that bridge classroom theories with real-world applications.

Support experiential learning: Through experiential learning programs, students gain practical insights and skills by engaging directly with industry. Companies collaborate with ACES on research activities, capstone projects, competitions, and team challenges, offering students opportunities to tackle real-world problems.

This not only enhances learning but also brings innovative solutions to corporate partners.

Scholarships, sponsorships, and recruitment opportunities: Support students to foster a vibrant academic environment, facilitate direct recruitment, and create a seamless transition from academia to the professional world.

COLLABORATION HIGHLIGHTS: • State Farm and Charles Schwab fund curriculum development and support student travel to financial planning competitions, providing experiential learning opportunities inside the classroom and out.

• Corteva Agriscience donated $10,000 to support the registered student organization Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources, and Related Sciences.

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7.34M

$

TOTAL CORPORATE GIVING

RESEARCH AND INNOVATION ACES faculty members conduct groundbreaking research in agriculture, environmental sciences, and human health and well-being at state-of-the-art facilities.

Facility upgrades and opportunities: Contributions ensure we remain at the forefront of research and innovation. Corporate partners leverage ACES’ cutting-edge facilities to conduct smallscale trials, gaining access to advanced technologies.

Sponsor research and equipment donations: Sponsor project specific or unrestricted research partnerships. Outfit equipment loans and donations to provide the tools for pioneering research.

COLLABORATION HIGHLIGHTS: • Compeer Financial provided funds for the AgrAbility Rollover Protective Structures program, which reduces the risk of injury or death from tractor rollovers.

• CNH and John Deere donated engines to enhance hands-on learning, allowing students to gain practical experience with advanced agricultural machinery and engine systems.

• PurposeBuilt donated two biological safety cabinets to ABE Assistant Professor Laurie Leonelli’s lab.

OUTREACH AND WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT Partner with ACES to extend the college across Illinois to create a robust, upskilled workforce.

Youth and community programming: Investments in programs like Illinois Extension and Illinois 4-H expand opportunities for communities and youth to thrive.

Credit and non-credit learning opportunities: Noncredit workshops, webinars, and certificate programs keep employees at the forefront of their fields while credit-bearing courses lead to advanced degrees and specializations to further boost skills and contributions.

COLLABORATION HIGHLIGHT: • farmdoc provides analysis, data, and tools for agriculturalists to make informed decisions with support from a variety of corporate sponsors: TIAACREF Center for Farmland Research, CoBank, Compeer Financial, Corteva Agriscience, Farm Credit Illinois, GROWMARK, Illinois Corn Marketing Board, Illinois Soybean Association, Strategic Farm Marketing, Solar Power Midwest, and Traction Ag.

“ Through dynamic corporate

partnerships, we are turning shared goals into actionable solutions that propel our college and countless industries forward.”

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ACES by the Numbers

3

#

Agricultural and Biological Engineering Undergraduate Program U.S. News & World Report

40,150 Living Alumni

Total Students

3,429 2,674 Undergrad Students

Total Employees

1,686 176

Tenured Faculty

755 Grad Students

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1,060 Staff

Amount Donated

$18,066,272 $4.2M

In ACES Scholarships Awarded Annually

Research Funding

$60.5M $7.34M Total Corporate Giving

10 18 27 7 25

Departments and Programs

Undergrad Majors

Master’s Degrees

Online Master’s Degrees

Online Certificates

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INVESTITURES

R ECO G N I T I O N

Dean Germán Bollero named Robert A. Easter Chair An internationally respected scholar of biometry and cropping systems, Dean Germán Bollero was formally honored as the Robert A. Easter Chair, bringing more than a decade of administrative leadership to the position. The Robert A. Easter Chair, held by the dean of the College of ACES, was created by alumni, friends, and colleagues to recognize the contributions of Robert “Bob” Easter, who served as an ACES faculty member, department head, and dean, as well as chancellor and the 19th president of the university.

Khanna appointed Alvin H. Baum Family Fund Chair Director of the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE) Madhu Khanna was officially appointed the Alvin H. Baum Family Fund Chair. Khanna, ACES distinguished professor in environmental economics in ACE, has been iSEE director since July 2022, but she has been a leader at iSEE since its inception. The Alvin H. Baum Family Fund is the founding benefactor of the iSEE and continues to support the institute’s educational missions and outreach programs.

Coppess honored as Gardner Endowed Professor in Agricultural Policy ACE Professor Jonathan Coppess was honored as the Leonard and Lila Gardner Illinois Farm Bureau Family of Companies Endowed Associate Professor in Agricultural Policy.

Coppess leads policy efforts for the Gardner Agriculture Policy Program, Gardner Policy Series, and farmdoc.

This professorship was established by Illinois alumni Len and Lila Gardner.

Paulson honored as Gardner Hinderliter Endowed Professor in Farm Management ACE Professor Nicholas Paulson was honored as the Hobart R. and Marian Gardner Hinderliter Endowed Professor in Farm Management.

He serves as associate head of the ACE department, director of the farmdoc project, and teaches small business and agricultural finance and econometrics. Alumnus Hobart R. Hinderliter and his wife Marian 48 | COLLEGE OF ACES

endowed the professorship to honor Hobie’s 60-year professional farm management career.

Ward honored as the Stuart L. and Nancy J. Levenick Chair in Sustainability NRES Professor Michael Ward was named the Stuart L. and Nancy J. Levenick Chair in Sustainability honoring his pioneering research on bird ecology and behavior.

Ward now oversees the Levenick Resident Scholars in Sustainability Leadership program, a partnership between NRES and the Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment thanks to a generous endowment from ACES alumnus Stuart and his wife Nancy Levenick.

SELECTED AWARDS

ACES faculty honored as 2023 AAAS Fellows Two ACES faculty members were elected 2023 fellows of the American Association for the Advancement of Science. NRES Professor Cory Suski was honored for his work in ecological physiology and conservation, while USDA-ARS ecologist Marty Williams, with appointments in CPSC and NRES, was recognized for his contributions to weed science, vegetable crop production, and community service.

Karplus receives Fulbright International Education Administrators Award As one of only ten recipients, Assistant Director of international Programs Lauren Karplus traveled to India for two weeks in March to learn about program and curriculum designs, organizational structures, quality assurance procedures, and credit and degree expectations to gain better insight into India’s higher education system.

Alum receives first-ever Shin Humanitarian Award, pays it forward Alumnus Bir Bahadur Singh, a renowned crop breeder, received the inaugural Dr. Tai R. and Mrs. You H. Shin Humanitarian Award from the University of Illinois System for his contributions to global food security. Alumnus Terry Shin and his wife established the award in 2022

to honor individuals who improve society, promote sustainability, and protect human rights. Sadly, B.B. Singh died in July.

SELECTED GRANTS

ADMI receives funding to empower Indonesian farmers Two new ADM Cares-funded projects, led by the ADM Institute for the Prevention of Postharvest Loss, aim to empower smallholder and women farmers in Indonesia. Led

by ADMI Director and ACE Professor Paul McNamara and ADMI Associate Director Anna Snider, the projects will partner with local agencies to pilot an Extension program serving 50 Extension workers and 500 farmers, primarily women.

From snack to science: Innovative grant brings popcorn into the classroom With a new USDA grant, CPSC Associate Professor Tony Studer is expanding his “pop-omics” curriculum to include lessons on agricultural science, AI, biotechnology, and genomics.

Partnering with NCSA faculty, Studer developed an AI algorithm to predict popcorn characteristics and will conduct workshop lessons with Illinois 4-H clubs. He also plans to create materials through the Illinois Farm Bureau’s Agriculture in the Classroom program.

New project looks to glycogen to explain pregnancy loss, infertility Led by ANSC Assistant Professor Matt Dean, researchers are investigating the role of glycogen in fertility and pregnancy with a new $1.9 million NIH grant. The five-year project will explore how uterine glycogen supports healthy pregnancies by studying transgenic mice that can’t store glycogen in the uterus. The team includes ANSC faculty Romana Nowak, Kelly Swanson, and Bruce Southey. They will study how obesity affects uterine glycogen storage, aiming to apply findings to prevent pregnancy loss.

New grant to optimize gut microbes, boost health benefits of broccoli Funded by a USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture grant, a

research team (led by FSHN Professor Mike Miller) aims to identify key bacteria that maximize anti-cancer and weight management compounds, potentially leading to custom probiotics and weight loss insights.

Project to sequence 400 soybean genomes, improve future crops CPSC Professor Matt Hudson is leading a project to create a soybean pangenome. Partnering with Artificial Intelligence for Future Agricultural Resilience, Management, and Sustainability (AIFARMS), the team will sequence 50 genomes at reference quality and 350 as high-quality drafts. Hudson will prioritize diverse lines, including those suited to harsh conditions, aiming to prepare for a climate-resilient future.

ACES AWARDS RECOGNIZE OUTSTANDING STUDENTS

Robert M. Harrison Award recognizes a College of ACES junior who has demonstrated a commitment to service, achievement, and leadership. Senior Carmen Trotta of Chicago will graduate in May 2025 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural leadership, education, and communications. After graduation, Trotta plans to pursue a career as a high school agriculture teacher.

Hugh P. Morrison Award honors a senior who displays substantial academic achievement, leadership, and an overall demonstrated commitment to the field of agriculture.

Olivia Messerges of Schaumburg graduated in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and consumer economics. Messerges plans to pursue a career as an environmental attorney, bringing a unique agricultural economics perspective to the field of environmental law.

Warren K. Wessels Award recognizes students with above-and-beyond academics, leadership record, participation in development activities, and contributions to improve the quality of life for others in ACES. Emma Kuhns, of Mason, Illinois, graduated in May 2024 with a bachelor’s degree in agricultural and consumer economics. Kuhns plans to become an agricultural and rural affairs-focused attorney.

ACES CELEBRATES EXCEPTIONAL ALUMNI

Faculty Award for Global Impact Alfred Roca (ANSC)

The 2023 ACES Alumni Award of Merit recipients: • Colleen Gibbons Syracuse, New York (M.S. ’09, Ph.D. ’13, HDFS)

Team Award for Excellence The Plant Diagnostic Clinic

• Ron Lloyd Girard, Illinois (B.S. ’94, M.S. ’01, CPSC)

• Esneider Mahecha (CPSC)

• Wayne Swigert Taylorville, Illinois (B.S. ’74, ACE)

Teaching Faculty Award Senior: Angela Lyons (ACE) College: Hannah Holscher (FSHN)

The 2023 ACES Career Achievement recipients: • Jessica Campbell Minneapolis, Minnesota (Ph.D. ’06, DNS)

Research Faculty Award Senior: Yong-Su Jin (FSHN) College: Kaiyu Guan (NRES)

• Peter Hansen Gainesville, Florida (B.S. ’76, Agriculture) • John “Jack” Murray Champaign, Illinois (B.S. ’78, CPSC) The 2023 ACES Outstanding Young Alumni recipients: • Kirk Builta Mahomet, Illinois (B.S. ’07, ALEC) • Matt Farell Denver, Colorado (B.S. ’09, FSHN)

• Diane Plewa (CPSC) • Alison Colgrove (CPSC) • Houria Ouzidane (CPSC)

Extension Faculty Award College: Josie Rudolphi (ABE) John Clyde and Henrietta Downey Spitler Teaching Award Craig Lemoine (ACE) Specialized Faculty Teaching Award Carmen Ugarte (NRES) Professional Staff Awards • Advising, Teaching and Outreach Katelyn Jones-Hamlow (ANSC) • Research Tim Lecher (ABE) • Innovation and Creativity Kendra Courson (ACES Admin)

• Krista Swanson Oneida, Illinois (B.S. ’07, CPSC; M.S., ’09, ACE)

• Administrative/Management or Technical Contributions Leslie Alexander (FSHN)

The 2023 ACES Family Spirit Award: Two generations of the Wyffels family have graduated from the University of Illinois. The family has provided decades of support to the College of ACES, Illinois Athletics, Illinois Extension and 4-H, and Agronomy Day.

Marcella M. Nance Staff Award Becca Snook (FSHN)

ACES FUNK AWARDS RECOGNIZE FACULTY AND STAFF Paul A. Funk Recognition Hans Stein (ANSC) Spitze Land-Grant Professorial Career Excellence Award Matthew Wheeler (ANSC)

Staff Award for Excellence Linda Harvey (CPSC) Service Recognition Award Joseph Spencer, Crop Sciences Graduate Student Research Award Ph.D. Xiaomei Li (HDFS) M.S. John Bieber (NRES) Louis V. Logeman Graduate Student Teaching Award Nathan Alexander (NRES) Christopher Maniotes (HDFS)

Runge Faculty Distinguished Achievement Award Ryan Dilger (ANSC)

ANNUAL REPORT 23-24 | 49

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• Sign up for The Advance, our external newsletter, to stay informed about the latest research, innovations, and impact from our college at go.aces.illinois.edu/ TheAdvance.

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• If you're inspired by our mission and would like to support our efforts, please consider making a donation by contacting the Office of Advancement at 217-333-9355 or acesadvancement@illinois.edu.

Editor-in-Chief

Production

Jennifer Larson

Heather Mathis Gabri Moore Paige Potter Taylor Roberts

Managing Editors and Writers Claire Benjamin Marianne Figge Stein Lauren Quinn Design Leslie Ehler Megan Elkins

Writing Contributors Jennifer Abbott Kylie Corral Bridget Lee-Calfas Leslie Myrick Steve Wald Ed West

Photography Contributors Simon Dures Michael Durham Herb Garn, USGS Holistic Life Foundation Holly Birch Photography Fred Zwicky Matthew Lester Photography Anna Longworth Photography Printing Premier Print Group

ANNUAL REPORT 23-24 | 51

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