Embedded Files
🎓 Help Us Build Futures – Your donation supports scholarships for aspiring leaders.
PAR Class of 1986 with Governor Jim Edgar (Can you spot Porter and Mary?)Â
Support Future Public Affairs JournalistsÂ
Support Future Public Affairs JournalistsÂ
at the University of Illinois Springfield
at the University of Illinois Springfield
As of July 2026, The Porter McNeil Public Service Foundation has launched the Porter and Mary McNeil PAR Student Support Fund at the University of Illinois Springfield (UIS), expanding the Foundation's mission to support aspiring journalists dedicated to covering government, politics, and public service.
This endowment honors Porter McNeil and his wife, Mary (Carlin) McNeil, who met as students in the University of Illinois Springfield's nationally respected Public Affairs Reporting (PAR) master's program, graduating together as members of the Class of 1986.
It was in Springfield that Porter and Mary immersed themselves in the daily work of state government, learning firsthand how public institutions function and developing the reporting, communication, and analytical skills that would shape their careers. Mary went on to become a public radio reporter covering Illinois state government, while Porter built a distinguished career spanning journalism, public affairs, political communications, and public service.
"Springfield gave Porter and me so much more than a graduate degree. It gave us mentors, lifelong friendships, and a front-row seat to learning how government really works. I want every student with the passion and ability to become a public affairs journalist to have that same opportunity."Â
-Mary McNeil, Vice President of the Porter McNeil Public Service Foundation
"Porter and Mary exemplify the core values we teach in the Public Affairs Reporting program: serving the public and informing the citizenry. And doing so in an intelligent and civil manner. It's gratifying to know this endowment will honor Porter's memory and the McNeil family's legacy and commitment to journalism. This gift will help our students gain even more knowledge and experience during their year with us at UIS."
-Jason R. Piscia, Director of the Public Affairs Reporting program (UIS)
His commitment to journalism and public life was matched by Mary's own distinguished career reporting on Illinois government and public policy. Together, they demonstrated the enduring impact that thoughtful reporting and public service can have on communities throughout Illinois.
The Foundation plans to formally celebrate the endowment with a public launch event in Springfield in 2027. Additional details, including opportunities for individuals and organizations to contribute directly to the endowment, will be announced in the coming months.
In the meantime, you can directly support the endowment by donating below
Page updated
Report abuse