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Kelly Loeffler

Kelly Loeffler

Former U.S. senator for Georgia (2020-21) | Former WNBA team owner, Bakkt CEO | Class of 1992

We say Illinois, 2019 Gies Business Distinguished Alumna Award winner Kelly Loeffler says ... Quad.

“As a 17-year-old farm kid who was the first in my family to have the opportunity to attend college, the vastness of the U of I campus was always tamed by the Quad," says the 1992 alumna, who represented Georgia in the U.S. Senate from 2020-21.

“It replicated the small-town feeling I grew up with and was a microcosm of the campus. Anchored by the Union and Foellinger Auditorium, it was the gateway to important places and events that stand out in my memory.

“At Foellinger, I attended challenging Accounting 202 classes, learned about prominent alumni, danced in a choreographed Panhellenic philanthropy event and celebrated a friend's birthday at a Pixies concert.

“I'm happy that it remains a vibrant part of the iconic Quad.”