University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Robert Jones to Step Down

Jones has served as chancellor since 2015

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Chancellor Robert Jones announced on Monday that he will step down from his position, effective June 30, 2023. Jones has served as chancellor since 2015. During his tenure, he has overseen a number of significant initiatives, including the launch of the Discovery Partners Institute, a public-private partnership focused on research and innovation; the creation of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion; and the development of a new strategic plan for the university.

Jones will return to faculty after stepping down

In a statement, Jones said that he is proud of the progress that the university has made during his tenure, but that he feels it is time for a new leader to take the helm. He said that he plans to return to the faculty after stepping down and continue his research in the field of computer science. Jones is a leading expert in artificial intelligence and has published over 200 papers in the field. He is also a fellow of the American Association for Artificial Intelligence and the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers.

Jones's accomplishments as chancellor

Under Jones's leadership, the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign has seen a number of significant accomplishments. These include:

• The launch of the Discovery Partners Institute, a public-private partnership focused on research and innovation
• The creation of the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion
• The development of a new strategic plan for the university
• A significant increase in research funding
• A rise in the university's ranking in the U.S. News & World Report

Jones has also been a strong advocate for the university's land-grant mission. He has worked to increase access to higher education for students from all backgrounds and to support research that addresses the challenges facing the state of Illinois and the world.

Jones's legacy

Jones will leave behind a legacy of leadership and innovation. He has been a strong advocate for the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and has helped to make it one of the leading public universities in the country. He will be missed by the university community, but his impact will continue to be felt for years to come.