By engaging in a project of original scholarship, research or creativity, students apply classroom knowledge to real world situations and develop critical thinking and communication skills, necessary for them to be engaged citizens and have successful careers in the 21st century. At UIS, faculty work closely with students on these projects, fulfilling the promise of “faculty who know you,” giving students confidence and often helping them to continue their education through to graduation. Your gift to undergraduate research will contribute to the academic excellence students find at UIS.