Charles Isbell named next Chancellor of University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Charles Lee Isbell Jr., currently provost at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, has been appointed as the next chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and vice president of the University of Illinois System. Pending formal approval by the University of Illinois Board of Trustees, Isbell will officially begin his tenure on August 1. He will serve in a designate capacity beginning July 16 as outgoing Chancellor Robert Jones concludes his term.

By Elizabeth Hess June 5, 2025 11:10 am

Contributedwww.wikipedia.comIsbell holds a bachelor’s degree in information and computer science from Georgia Tech and earned both his master’s and Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science from MIT.

CHAMPAIGN-URBANA, IL (Chambana Today) – Charles Lee Isbell Jr., currently provost at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, has been appointed as the next chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (UIUC) and vice president of the University of Illinois System. Pending formal approval by the University of Illinois Board of Trustees, Isbell will officially begin his tenure on August 1. He will serve in a designate capacity beginning July 16 as outgoing Chancellor Robert Jones concludes his term.

University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen praised Isbell’s appointment, calling it the result of a rigorous national search. “He has a clear, creative and inspiring vision for what public higher education can and should be,” Killeen said. “He brings a deep understanding of technology and its impacts, along with a commitment to the full range of academic disciplines that define a great university.”

Isbell expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead UIUC. “I’m energized by this chance to serve the citizens of Illinois and advance the mission of learning, discovery, engagement and economic development,” he said.

Isbell holds a bachelor’s degree in information and computer science from Georgia Tech and earned both his master’s and Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science from MIT. His research in artificial intelligence and machine learning has centered on human-centered systems with wide applications, including education, ethics, and social impact.

A highly respected scholar and leader, Isbell is a Fellow of both the Association for the Advancement of Artificial Intelligence and the Association for Computing Machinery. He is also an elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences and has authored more than 100 academic publications.

In addition to his research, Isbell is nationally recognized for his advocacy in broadening participation in STEM, especially in computing. His work and perspectives have been featured in major outlets such as The New York Times, The Washington Post, and The Chronicle of Higher Education.