President
Trinity
Sets organizational goals, leads meetings, and represents IDSSO with the university and external partners.
About IDSSO
An inclusive community of analytical leaders
The Information and Decision Sciences Student Organization at UIC develops analytical leaders and collaborative problem solvers through hands-on learning, professional development, industry engagement, and mentorship.
01 · Purpose
Why IDSSO exists
“To foster an inclusive, cross-disciplinary community that empowers students to grow as analytical leaders and collaborative problem solvers.”
IDSSO supports students in realizing their full potential as emerging professionals in an increasingly data-driven world.
We are an inclusive, cross-disciplinary community where students develop into analytical leaders and collaborative problem solvers—growing not only in technical and decision-making skills, but also in confidence, perspective, and professional identity necessary to succeed in complex organizations.
We believe that professional development is not limited to coursework or credentials. It is about helping students develop the skills to think critically, collaborate with others, and present themselves as professionals. Through shared learning, meaningful engagement, and peer-driven leadership, members gain clarity about their interests, strengths, and career direction.
Our purpose is simple: to help students grow with intention—so they are prepared not just to enter the workforce, but to contribute thoughtfully and responsibly wherever their paths lead.
02 · Mission
The mission of IDSSO is to provide students with hands-on learning opportunities, professional development programming, industry engagement, and collaborative projects that strengthen analytical, technical, and decision-making skills. IDSSO serves all UIC students interested in Information and Decision Science topics by offering workshops, networking events, panel discussions, mentorship, and leadership opportunities that support academic and career success.
03 · Vision
What we are building
The Information and Decision Sciences Student Organization envisions a student-led community that becomes a recognized center for learning, leadership, and professional development in Information and Decision Sciences at UIC and across the Chicago region.
We envision a future where our members are actively exploring and developing a deep understanding of IDS topics—such as analytics, information systems, artificial intelligence, and operations management—while also cultivating the professional skills that define effective leaders: communication, collaboration, judgment, and accountability.
Our vision is for IDSSO members to drive their own development. They will conceptualize and execute significant initiatives, host conferences and networking events, forge strategic partnerships, and cultivate opportunities that bolster both individual members and the wider campus community. IDSSO will serve as a platform where students develop not only problem-solving acumen but also essential leadership skills for managing people and projects.
Beyond campus, IDSSO fosters lasting relationships with alumni, industry partners, and organizations that value thoughtful and capable talent. These partnerships create opportunities for mentorship, experiential learning, and real-world exposure—while positioning IDSSO members as professionals organizations want to recruit.
Our long-term aspiration is to be known for the quality of our people.
Graduates of the IDSSO community are recognized not only for their technical knowledge and understanding but also for their professionalism, maturity, and ability to work effectively across disciplines.
04 · Virtues
Six virtues unite our members
A shared code for how we work toward our goals. Open any one to see what it looks like in practice.
01Open-mindednessSeeking understanding before judgmentWe approach people, ideas, and problems with curiosity and respect. An open mind allows data, dialogue, and diverse perspectives to shape stronger decisions.In practice
We listen actively, invite perspectives across disciplines, and challenge assumptions through respectful debate.
02Informed perspectiveThinking with evidence and intentWe make decisions grounded in data, reason, and context. An informed perspective means engaging critically with information and applying it responsibly.In practice
We verify facts, cite sources, ask “What do we know—and how do we know it?”, and treat uncertainty as part of analysis.
03Constructive collaborationBuilding together, not just working togetherWe collaborate to create outcomes, not to comply. Constructive collaboration combines skills, data, and insight to produce results greater than what any individual could achieve alone.In practice
We share credit, offer actionable feedback, bridge functional divides, and prioritize tangible progress.
04Continuous developmentCommitting to learning and improvementWe believe growth is a discipline. Continuous development reflects our commitment to evolving skill, judgment, and understanding through curiosity and consistent improvement.In practice
We pursue learning opportunities, seek and provide feedback, reflect on mistakes, mentor peers, and translate new knowledge into action—supported by regular structures for organizational improvement.
05AccountabilityOwning outcomes individually and collectivelyWe honor commitments, measure results, and learn from the impact of our actions. Accountability protects our standards and strengthens our culture.In practice
We set clear expectations, follow through, communicate early, and use outcomes to improve.
06Social responsibilityGiving back to our communityWe recognize our responsibility to uplift the communities that support us. We seek opportunities to make a positive impact through service, philanthropy, and sharing our expertise.In practice
We volunteer, partner with community organizations, support charitable initiatives, raise funds for scholarships, and apply our skills for the public good.
Executive board · 2026–27
Meet the e-board
Twelve students run IDSSO. Flip a card to see what each role does, or write to all of us at eboard@idssochi.org.
Vice President
Karen
Coordinates event planning, tracks committee progress, and steps in for the President when needed.
CommitteeInternal Outreach
Secretary
Stefan
Keeps meeting minutes, records, and the membership roster, and shares meeting and event notices with members.
Treasurer
Edgar
Manages the budget, financial records, and the organization's funds.
CommitteeFundraising
VP of Membership
Damian
Oversees new member onboarding and helps plan professional development programming.
CommitteeEvent Planning
Director of External Affairs
Jenny
Builds relationships with industry partners, alumni, and faculty, and secures speakers, mentors, and sponsors.
CommitteeExternal Outreach
Co-Director of Marketing
Evelyn
Runs IDSSO's social media and promotes the organization and its events across campus.
CommitteeMarketing
Co-Director of Marketing
Cici
Runs IDSSO's social media and promotes the organization and its events across campus.
CommitteeMarketing
Event Planning Chair
Mai
Plans and runs IDSSO events, from workshops to socials.
CommitteeEvent Planning
Fundraising Chair
Jose
Raises funds that support IDSSO programming.
CommitteeFundraising
Corporate Outreach Chair
Sunny
Builds relationships with companies, alumni, and campus partners.
CommitteeExternal Outreach
Undergrad Outreach Chair
Madiha
CommitteeInternal Outreach
Founder and advisor
The people behind the board
Our advisor supports the organization's growth, planning, and continuity, and helps uphold fairness in discipline and election processes.
Our constitution
The governing document of IDSSO. It sets out our purpose, membership standards, officer roles, elections, and committees.
Read the constitutionWork with us
IDSSO welcomes faculty and professionals who want to contribute through guest speaking, workshop facilitation, mentorship, or advisement.
Media and partnership interest formAnyone can come to a public event.
Membership adds members-only events, committees, and a seat at the planning table.