Alumna and longtime staff member Jill Gengler (MS '99) has been named director of alumni affairs for the iSchool. In her new role, she will manage alumni engagement and programming, collaborating closely with other units in the iSchool and on campus.
Gengler, who began working at the iSchool after earning her MS degree in library and information science, has held positions of increasing responsibility, serving most recently as Help Desk manager. With nearly 20 years of experience in student support roles, she has developed strong connections with iSchool graduates as well as valuable institutional knowledge and administrative skills. She is passionate about the School, its mission, and the community of faculty, staff, students, and alumni who contribute to its ongoing success.
"I've always enjoyed building relationships with our students," said Gengler. "I love to hear what's brought people to the iSchool, what people are studying, and what kind of experiences they’re having while they’re a part of our community. I do my best to keep track of people as they graduate and move on—social media has been a great help."
With a BA in teaching of social science from the University of Illinois, Gengler taught high school history in Danville, Illinois, before moving to the Chicago suburbs. She was working part time as a circulation assistant in the St. Charles Public Library when she enrolled in the Leep program. She served as a graduate assistant while earning her MS degree, and thereafter as the School's computer assisted instruction specialist, manager of instructional technology, and for the past ten years, Help Desk manager.
In 2013, Gengler was honored by the iSchool's alumni association with the Distinguished Service Award, which recognized her commitment to developing a strong sense of community both within the School and with alumni.
Gengler, who begins her new position on August 14, looks forward to connecting with alumni and listening to their stories. "I have enjoyed the opportunity to work with so many people, and I'm excited to get to know more of the alumni who came before me. I really cannot wait to get started!"