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

Announcement was made during Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday

Robert Jones, the Chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, announced during a Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday that he will step down from his position. According to a statement from the university, Jones will remain in his role until a successor is named. A search for his replacement will begin immediately.

Jones became the university’s chancellor in 2016. He is the first African American to lead a Big Ten university.

During his time as chancellor, Jones has led the university through several major initiatives, including the implementation of a new strategic plan, the launch of a new fundraising campaign, and the construction of several new buildings.

Jones said in a statement that he is proud of the progress the university has made during his tenure.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to have served as chancellor of this great university,” Jones said. “I am proud of the progress we have made together, and I am confident that the university will continue to thrive in the years to come.”

The Board of Trustees thanked Jones for his service to the university and wished him well in his future endeavors.