Partners in Service

From being students at the University of Illinois Chicago, to serving UIC students for more than 61 years combined, married couple Jacob “Jay” Mueller BA ’04, MEd ’13, and Stacie McCloud  BA ’92, MS ’95, retired in May 2024, carrying lessons learned and more.

“We are one of the most culturally interesting and progressive campuses in the country,” Mueller said.

With separate work lives, they shared their dedication to service, or what Stacie called “getting people where they need to be.”

As a single mother, McCloud started her UIC journey when she entered the Honors College — a decision that proved life-changing. After graduation, the Honors College hired her, and for the last 32 years, she has helped thousands of students — ending her tenure as associate dean. “I have communicated in some way or worked one-on-one with almost all the 10,000 Honors College alumni,” McCloud said.

As a transgender person, Mueller was a pioneer in visibility at UIC. He started as support staff, then later became director of the Office of Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Concerns (now called the Gender and Sexuality Center), making it a nationally recognized LGBTQ+ program. He worked in various roles at the university, retiring as the assistant vice chancellor and chief of staff to the UIC Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity and Engagement.

“There is a deep and abiding love for this place,” Mueller said.

McCloud said she was most proud of that love of place, and their service to it. Her biggest career accomplishment? “Never giving up on a student.” Mueller cited his collaborative role in establishing the UIC Neighborhood Centers in Auburn Gresham and North Lawndale during the pandemic as part of UIC’s Advancing Racial Equity charge.

Regarding their future plans, Mueller plans to work with youth, sharing his unique life experiences. McCloud, a member of FreeMomHugs.org, will continue her advocacy, network with Honors College alumni and shelter older dogs, a service Mueller is happy to share in.