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University of Illinois Springfield students earned the Outstanding Large Delegation award at the Model Illinois Government (MIG) simulation, held March 5-8 at the Illinois State Capitol in Springfield. It marks the seventh time in the past 13 years that UIS has received the honor.
UIS students competed against peers from 17 colleges and universities from across Illinois and beyond, including schools from Indiana and Michigan. The simulation allows participants to serve as legislators, staffers, lobbyists, journalists and executive branch officials. Throughout the weekend, UIS students debated legislation, amended bills in committee and ran for election.
“I'm incredibly proud of our students,” said Ken Owen, MIG faculty advisor and associate professor of history. “Students didn't just learn valuable lessons about how government operates. They also strengthened their preparation, public speaking, leadership and teamwork skills while supporting each other throughout the weekend.”
The UIS delegation earned two individual awards during the simulation:
- Isaiah Gauwitz of Grayslake won the Outstanding Member of the Senate award.
- Samuel Moore of Moweaqua won the Outstanding Member of Staff award.
- Isaiah Gauwitz of Grayslake was elected Senate majority assistant leader.
- Andy Reed of Mascoutah was elected House minority assistant leader.
- Samuel Moore of Moweaqua was elected governor.
- Yash Gajera of Springfield was elected lieutenant governor.
- John Kennedy of Oakdale was elected president of the Senate.
- Lucas Schilling of Valmeyer was elected speaker of the House.
MIG members start preparing legislation during the fall term, polish their parliamentary skills and organize their membership into a delegation for the spring conference.
University of Illinois Springfield
-
Blake Wood Director of Media Strategy
- March 11, 2026
- (217) 206-8404
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