Alexis "Lex" Tate

Alexis “Lex” Tate is a member of the 1972 graduating class, with a degree in Journalism and News Editing through the College of Communications (now known as the College of Media). Tate has had quite a career. Her journey began in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at Alverno College, a Catholic university for all girls. Here Tate planned to study Medical Technology, which was a five-year program. Though she quickly learned that she was not fit for the medical field, as Tate said, “chemistry and I were not best friends.” Within two months, Tate knew that the small school was just not for her. She had her eyes set on something bigger. Thus, she applied to the University of Illinois. Tate entered the college as an English major. By her Junior year she was able to direct her focus towards Journalism, which at the time was only a two-year program. In 1965 Tate became a member of the Daily Illini team, a job she scored thanks to one of her sorority sisters. From that point on she knew wanted to be a journalist; however, she ran into a few bumps in the road. In her last semester Tate ended up failing three of her classes. Thus, she decided it was time for a hiatus. After spending a year in Sweden and getting married Tate finally returned to the University in 1971 to complete her flunked classes and graduate in ‘72. Upon graduation Tate began her job with the News Gazette. As Tate recalls it, she walked into the office on a Wednesday with her resume in hand, and by Friday she was being trained for her new position. A year later, Tate decided to leave the Gazette for something new, only to return again. This time she decided to stay for a while. Throughout her time with the publication, Tate worked on a variety from reporting, to writing, to editing. Eventually, she settled her focus on higher education writing. Thirteen years in the daily print business later it was Tate’s time to leave. With the arrival of her son and her husband traveling for work Tate’s priorities were elsewhere. Six months passes by and Tate was approached by a colleague asking for recommendations for a new job position. Without hesitation Tate responded, “I’d be interested.” Within months, the job was hers. Tate spent the next 22 years of her life in this position; serving “as a PR professional for three U of Illinois presidents, other senior officers and Board of Trustees members.” Though, she did not stop there. Due to being low on funds the University was in need of a professor to lead a few courses. Tate rose to the occasion and took on the role without pay, while still working in Public Relations. Eventually it was time for Tate to retire, so she took a step back from public relations; however, she still remains a lecturer to this day. When asked what advice she had for students, this is what Tate had to say “Live a good full life. Take advantage of everything you can, and don’t be afraid to change whatever you thought your plan was. Leave yourself open to change . . . nothing is forever.”