The Illinois Scholars at Risk (ISAR) Program welcomes people from around the world. The program provides sanctuary and assistance to scholars, researchers, practitioners, and artists who face severe threats at home. The 2024-2025 cohort has welcomed 10 scholars to campus from eight countries who are hosted by multiple colleges across the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
ISAR not only provides a haven for scholars, but it allows them to continue their careers and make a meaningful contribution to their areas of expertise. In Russia, many academics in the humanities and social sciences are forced to self-censor, cease their research, face the consequences of political persecution or be charged with crimes. Maxim Krupskiy, an attorney and scholar with over 12 years of experience in Russia, can avoid these consequences and continue his research in the Illinois College of Law.
“ISAR at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign allows me to meet like-minded people and feel their genuine support and care, which is incredibly important when you find yourself in the vulnerable position of a scholar in exile," he said.
It’s notable that ISAR has not only improved the lives of these scholars, but it’s also transformed the lives of their families. One scholar, hosted by the College of Veterinary Medicine, described the impact on their family saying, “I have a job today, my children are attending school, and my wife is learning English. We don't have enough words to express our gratitude for ISAR's unwavering support.” Another, in the Grainger College of Engineering, stated, “ISAR’s assistance has saved the life of my family, and we are lucky that we are still surviving with a hope of a better future for my kids.”
In his home country of Cameroon, Eric Zama faced intensifying conflict, which included being captured on more than one occasion. Now, he can safely continue his academic work in the College of Agricultural, Consumer & Environmental Sciences. He said, “The program has provided me with the critical support I needed to continue my research without the disruption and insecurity caused by the ongoing conflict in my home region.”
ISAR provides refuge and aid to these scholars, artists, and practitioners as they continue their academic work free of turmoil, threats, and disasters. Each visiting scholar holds an advanced degree and participates in teaching, research, professional development, and more. Areas of expertise for the latest cohort include economics, law, history, agricultural and biological engineering, art, and public health. While this program has certainly made an impact on the lives of participants, these scholars are making an impact at Illinois. Learn more about the ISAR program here