Meet Ed Slazinik
Director, Illini Union
How long have you been working in your current position? In Student Affairs?
I became Interim Director in May 2003, and then Director in January 2004. I was Associate Director of the Union from 1990 until my interim Director status.
What is your educational background?
My undergraduate degree is in Environmental Science from Richard Stockton State College, New Jersey. I completed a Masters Degree in Higher Education at Southern Illinois University - Carbondale.
What previous jobs and positions have you held? Any in Student Affairs?
Prior to coming to the University of Illinois in 1990, I worked as Director of Operations at the Norris Center at Northwestern University in Evanston, Illinois. I also worked at the Student Center at Southern Illinois - Carbondale before going to Northwestern in 1986.
Why did you come to the University of Illinois?
The Illini Union is one of the premier college unions in the country, and the reputation of Student Affairs is also outstanding. At Illinois, I can contribute to the co-curricular learning experiences of students, while learning more about the Illini Union, a very complex and unique organization.
What is your favorite part of your job?
I cherish the partnership that the Illini Union has with the students on the Illini Union Board (IUB) because it offers students an experience that compliments what they learn in the classroom. The Union is a premiere facility, and the partnership between the Union and IUB contributes to each other's success.
What is your best professional memory?
My best memories are the opportunities I have had working with students to fulfill a project. In particular, I remember my work with several student committees who were able to develop the vision that became the Courtyard Café.
What are your future professional goals?
I'm focused on improving the Illini Union's programs and services. We are fortunate to have so much to work with and our foundation positions us to be the best.
What are your current job responsibilities?
As Director of the Union I oversee all of the operations of the Union and the Illini Union Bookstore and have an ex-officio position on IUB. I try to set direction and establish vision for all of the union departments.
What are you most proud of accomplishing professionally?
My recent appointment as Director of the Illini Union is the highlight of my professional career. I am honored to have the opportunity to provide leadership to an organization that is held in high regard by the campus and by the profession.
What is the most challenging aspect of your job?
Setting a vision for the future and attempting to ensure that the Illini Union be the best it can be at contributing to the "University of Illinois" experience.
What do you do to relax after a stressful day?
I lke reading either fiction or philosophy (eastern in particular).
Where might students find you when you're outside the office?
I spend lots of time with my family: ice skating during the winter months, swimming in the summer; and transporting my kids to soccer, baseball, gymnastics, band practice or concerts.
2010 Award Recipients