University of Illinois Springfield

Ben Hage has been named director of The Petrick Idea Center at Illinois Wesleyan University, effective June 1.

Marathon bargaining sessions over the weekend resulted in a tentative agreement to return to work.

Rep. Lashawn Ford said he is urging the UIS chancellor to settle the strike, which is nearing a third week.

The strike began Friday involving tenured and tenure-track faculty.

The show is one of the first announced for the facility since it closed last year for a major plumbing project and renovations, including new seating.

A key issue remains salary.

Titled “Beyond City Limits,” the initiative invites local historical societies and K-12 educators to partner in a unique, place-based project that connects community history with classroom learning.

The strike began Friday after a year of negotiations.

Union voices concerns over inadequate pay after months of negotiations

Another negotiating session is planned prior to the strike date.