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Is your role at Illinois directly connected to academic or career advising? Do you have an upcoming conference or professional development opportunity you would like to take advantage of, but need financial support to do so?
Consider applying for the Rebecca J. Simon Professional Development Award.
Rebecca J. (Becky) Simon (October 4, 1940-October 15, 2018) was born in Centralia, Illinois. She spent her career at the University of Illinois in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences as an Academic Advisor and as Director of the Placement and Undergraduate Advising Office in the School of Chemical Sciences. In that capacity, she helped to launch the successful careers of thousands of students. Becky was instrumental in starting and running the graduation ceremony and reception for students in the School of Chemical Sciences.
Becky was married to James E. Simon, a former University of Illinois professor of architecture, for 47 years, until his death in 2011. Becky was an avid, master knitter and enjoyed working with all of the fiber arts. She loved cats and cared for several Maine Coons during her lifetime. In high school, Becky was involved in band, madrigals, and choir, and continued her involvement in the Botany Department at Southern Illinois University before joining the staff of the University of Illinois.
Becky was an ever-faithful student advocate and a voice of encouragement and reassurance for her students. Becky was also grateful for the financial support, mentoring, and encouragement she received to provide innovative and effective services, be involved in leadership roles on campus and at regional and national levels, and share her knowledge through conference presentations, seminars, and publications. Her legacy and commitment to professional development continues today through this award.
The Simon Award
The Rebecca J. Simon Award supports professional development opportunities for academic advisors and career services professionals. Recipients may receive up to $1000 to offset registration, travel, and lodging expenses associated with attending a conference or other professional development opportunity that will enhance their work with students.
Application Info and Timeline
The Simon Award application opens three times each year, funds must be used within one calendar year, and the professional development opportunity must be directly related to career services or academic advising.
For more information and to apply, please visit: https://go.illinois.edu/SimonAward