Urbana, IL (CAPITOL CITY NOW) – The University of Illinois Board of Trustees has approved Charles Lee Isbell, Jr. as the next chancellor of the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and vice president of the University of Illinois System, following a unanimous vote during a special board meeting Monday.

Isbell, a renowned computer scientist and higher education leader, currently serves as provost at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. He will become the 11th chancellor in UIUC history on August 1, after a short transition period beginning July 16. He succeeds Robert Jones, who will complete his term after nearly a decade of leadership.

University of Illinois System President Tim Killeen echoed that enthusiasm: “Dr. Isbell brings an intellectual curiosity and a panoramic appreciation of the many, many academic disciplines that constitute a world-class university,” Killeen said. “He will lead with compassion and brings a strategic vision that will guide our flagship university to new heights.”

Isbell will take the helm of a top-ranked public research institution serving more than 56,000 students and employing nearly 13,000 faculty and staff. Known for its global research impact, UIUC also houses one of the world’s top computer science programs—an area in which Isbell has deep expertise.

Academic and Professional Background

A native of Atlanta, Georgia, Isbell holds a bachelor’s degree in information and computer science from Georgia Tech, and a master’s and Ph.D. in electrical engineering and computer science from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

His research focuses on artificial intelligence and machine learning, particularly in the areas of human-centered systems, with applications in education, ethics, and social impact. He is widely respected for combining technical depth with a commitment to accessible, ethical technology.

Isbell has also earned national recognition for his work to broaden participation in STEM, especially in computing. His advocacy has influenced how institutions and national organizations think about equity, inclusion, and representation in the tech world.

With a proven track record in strategic leadership, interdisciplinary collaboration, and inclusive academic development, Isbell is seen as a forward-looking leader well-positioned to guide UIUC into its next chapter of growth and innovation.

Isbell and his wife, Sheila, have two children, Cody and Joni.