University of Illinois

 

Sponsored Programs and Research Compliance

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Main Content

Events

You are here

Events

SPaRC Spotlights

SPaRC Spotlight: Research Security in the Headlines - Breaking Down Real Cases

We’ve all seen the headlines.  Now let’s talk about what’s behind them.  The Office of Research Security will explore real-world cases that have shaped the research security landscape and discuss how these situations developed.  Along the way, we’ll cover practical best practices, institutional safeguards, and the latest federal updates so you can better support your faculty and units.

Presenters: 

  • Nick Dabbs, Deputy Export Compliance Officer, Office of Research Security 
  • Jesse Funk, Research Compliance Analyst, Office of Research Security
  • Jacquelyn Jancius, Senior Conflict of Interest Officer, Office of Research Security
  • Linda Lee Drozt, Director, Office of Research Security
  • Bob Roach, Senior Export Compliance Officer, Office of Research Security
Tuesday, May 5, 2026 1:30 - 3:00 PM

Zoom: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/82311819782?pwd=RT9Z1lxYP98VJzY5ZZkZADAJYAOalE.1

 

SPaRC Spotlight: Making Connections

This Spotlight presented by Caryn Bills, Associate Chancellor in the UIC Office for Access and Equity (OAE) will emphasize proactive strategies to strengthen workplace culture through communication, civility, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety.  Caryn will highlight the cost of unresolved conflict and will introduce Dispute Resolution Services (DRS) as a voluntary, confidential mediation process designed to address concerns early, prevent escalation, and promote healthy working relationships.  The overall focus centers on fostering an equitable, respectful, and psychologically safe environment that enhances collaboration, reduces grievances, and supports institutional effectiveness.  

Presenter: 

  • Caryn Bills, Associate Chancellor, UIC Office for Access and Equity 
Wednesday, May 20, 2026 1:00 - 2:30 PM

Zoom: https://illinois.zoom.us/j/84936646957?pwd=QsIoFlAvvJQid0p5cFjypuwwrAWmmC.1

 

Quarterly Meetings

The SPaRC Quarterly Meetings provide a platform to exchange and disseminate information related to the support of the sponsored portfolio to central and departmental administrative staff.

Thursday, June 25, 2026 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM

NCSA Auditorium

1205 W Clark St., Urbana

Zoom: https://go.illinois.edu/SPaRCQuarterlyMeeting

Meeting Materials and Agenda

SPaRC Annual Retreat

The SPaRC Annual Retreat is a chance for research administrators from across campus to come together to connect, learn, and celebrate their important role in advancing the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign’s research mission. The day features guest speakers, plenary sessions on emerging initiatives and policy updates, and afternoon breakout sessions covering a range of sponsored project topics. Breakfast and lunch are included.

Registration for the 2026 SPaRC Retreat will open in August.  If you have questions please contact Kamil Tamimie (tamimie@illinois.edu).

2025 SPaRC Retreat Materials

Friday, September 11, 2026 9:00 AM - 3:30 PM Illinois Conference Center

Contact Us

For questions or more information, please contact Kamil Tamimie, Sr. Assistant Director, Training, Outreach, and Data Management.