Meet the exec board.
Charlie Remmers
President
Hey, I’m Charlie Remmers! I’m from a farm near the town of Roanoke, IL, and I am a senior majoring in Atmospheric Science. My main academic interests are in radar remote sensing and convective processes, especially cloud dynamics + thermodynamics and cloud-aerosol interactions. In my current research, I am looking at the dynamic and diabatic causes of frontogenesis and how these can impact winter precipitation. In my free time, I’m a big fan of weightlifting, playing volleyball, landscape photography, and occasionally video games. I hope to make ISTORM a welcoming, inclusive environment with ample opportunities for CliMAS students and weather enthusiasts alike!
Jared Emmert
Vice President
Hi, my name is Jared Emmert and I am the Vice President of ISTORM! I am originally from the small town of Saint Joseph, IL, which is about a 15-minute drive from campus. I am a senior majoring in Climate, Meteorology, and Atmospheric Sciences. I have done research with simultaneous tornadoes as well as the identification of potential derecho events using climate models. Severe weather is my passion and will be my focus on research for the years to come. Outside of school, you can find me at any Illinois sports event or playing soccer with friends. I am excited to see all of you at our events this year!
Olivia Samolej
Treasurer
Hi I’m Olivia Samolej! Currently, I am a junior studying Atmospheric Sciences and I am the treasurer of ISTORM. I’m from Naperville, IL and I am most interested in radar and winter weather. Currently in my research I am trying to quantify and understand the microphysical processes that occur at the termination of the radar bright band associated with winter cyclones. Outside of school, you can find me reading, playing spikeball or volleyball, or at Illini sports events.
Alyssa Shih
Secretary
Hi I’m Alyssa Shih! I’m from Chicago and am majoring in Atmospheric Sciences (Class of ’26). Currently, I’m researching large storm systems called mesoscale convective systems, but I love of everything weather, climate, and aerosols. Aside from ISTORM, I’m part of the Student Sustainability Committee, Altgeld Chimes, and am a photographer for the Daily Illini. You might catch me climbing or practicing violin or doing calligraphy around campus. If you need me, you’ll find me in the best building on campus (and no I’m not biased): the Natural History Building.
Juliana Wittrock
Social Media
Hi, I’m Juliana Wittrock! I am a junior studying Climate Meteorology & Atmospheric Sciences. I am doing research with IMPACTS data with Bob Rauber. Outside of the department I work as an Aquatics Student Coordinator for Campus Recreation, paint my nails, watch hockey, and watch cringy movies/shows. If you ever have any questions or just want to talk, feel free to reach out!
Adam Wittwer
Webmaster
Hey, I’m Adam Wittwer! I’m from Crystal Lake, Illinois, and I’m a sophomore pursuing a dual degree in Computer Science and Atmospheric Sciences. I’m primarily interested in severe weather and the intersection of deep learning with meteorology. Outside of ISTORM, you’ll probably catch me at Siebel/ECEB/CIF working on CS HW, at the NHB, or just spending time with friends.
Matthew Perry
Lead Forecaster
Hey, my name is Matthew Perry and I am an ISTORM lead forecaster! This is my second year serving in that position. I’m originally from Bridgeview, IL, a suburb about thirty minutes from downtown Chicago. I’m a junior majoring in Atmospheric Sciences, and my favorite topic to study is tropical meteorology. Currently, I am researching how moisture from the Pacific Ocean contributes to snowfall in wintertime storms with Dr. Bob Rauber. Outside of my academic life, I enjoy reading, watching sports, and traveling whenever possible!
Rory Simon
Lead Forecaster
Hi! I’m Rory. I’m originally from the UK but have lived in the US for 14 years at this point. I’m still stuck with the accent unfortunately. I’m a senior studying Atmospheric Sciences with interests in severe weather and forecasting! I also do consulting and venture capital work when I’m not forecasting. I love to rock climb and cycle so I can bake and eat more cakes! Happy to chat about anything 🙂