Director, Academic Advising & Career Services
Patricia Simpson
plblum@illinois.edu
Patricia Simpson joined the University of Illinois’ School of Chemical Sciences in August 2007 and now serves as the Director of Academic Advising and Career Services, where she oversees all aspects of the unit. Prior to that, she served as the Director of Career Services for the University of North Alabama for eight years. After obtaining a B.A. in Communications and English, she worked as an Admissions Counselor in South Dakota and as a Career Counselor at Azusa Pacific University in California where she also acquired her M.Ed. in College Student Affairs. Patricia serves as the ACS Webinars Careers Channel Moderator and on the UI Career Services Council. She is also the former Past President of the Midwest Association of Colleges and Employers and a 2016 Knights of St. Patrick Kay Kappes Golden Shamrock winner.
In her (limited) free time, Patricia is the owner/consultant of Game Changing Etiquette. She is passionate about helping students find their unique strengths and serving as a connection for them with employers and alumni to enable them to achieve their professional goals, while also seeking to support employers with all of their recruiting needs.
Recruiting Coordinator
Kelly Nowlin
kellynow@illinois.edu
Kelly Nowlin joined the School of Chemical Sciences in 2023 after spending eight years as Executive Director of the Champaign-Urbana Theatre Company. During her time in community theatre, she helped bring The Penguin Project® to the local area, creating opportunities for youth with disabilities to participate in and benefit from the performing arts.
In her current role, Kelly enjoys connecting students with resources, opportunities, and employers that help them explore and achieve their career goals. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her husband and staying connected with her adult twin sons. She values the opportunity to combine her background in leadership, communication, and community engagement to support students throughout their academic and professional journeys.
Career Services Coordinator
Holli Hazelwood
hollih@illinois.edu
Holli Hazelwood began working for the School of Chemical Sciences in 2026. Before joining the team, she supported experiential learning programs in LAS International Programs. Prior to
coming to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, she worked in the tech industry as a project manager, and she has a broad range of career experiences focused on education and community development. Holli has a passion for travel and international experiences; she has visited 11 countries and lived abroad for several years in South Korea. A native Floridian, she
enjoys nature and wildlife activities. After completing her Bachelor of Fine Arts at the Kansas City Art Institute, she earned a Master’s degree in Curriculum and Instruction from the University of Missouri-Kansas City.