Illinois Alumni

For this May 2026 graduate earning her M.S. in Advertising, IlliniLink helped turn Illinois connections into meaningful opportunities.

“Any connection there is already one step closer because of the U of I background, so it’s a great tool to maximize!”

Now it's your turn to make an impact. Join IlliniLink and help students and fellow alumni build the connections that can shape careers.

Sign up today: https://illinilink.illinois.edu/

The Summer 2026 issue of magazine is now available online and free to read.

This issue's cover story spotlights Scott Gendell, ’79 MEDIA, whose successful career in commercial real estate took an unexpected turn when he helped purchase and revive Chicago's famed iO Theatre.

Discover how entrepreneurship, creativity, and a belief in the power of human connection are helping shape the future of improv comedy.

Read the full issue online today: https://www.illinoisalumnimagazine.org/illinoisalumni/summer_2026/MobilePagedArticle.action?articleId=2133109&app=false

On this day in 1929, crowds gathered to witness the dedication of Alma Mater.

What began as a gift from the Classes of 1923-1929 quickly became one of the most beloved symbols of Illinois. For 97 years, students, alumni, faculty, and friends have gathered around Alma to celebrate milestones, make memories, and mark new beginnings.

The inscription on her base reads:

"To thy happy children of the future those of the past send greetings."

Nearly a century later, those words continue to connect generations of Illini.

As we celebrate Alma's birthday 🎂, revisit the remarkable story of Alma's restoration in Lady in Waiting.

🔗 https://uiaa.org/2014/06/03/lady-in-waiting/

When was your first photo with Alma? 🧡💙

🧡💙🚵Illini 4000

A year marked by memorable moments. A future full of possibility.

Join Chancellor Isbell tomorrow for a live conversation about the priorities, opportunities, and challenges shaping the future of Illinois and higher education.

⏰ Time is running out to register for this free webinar. Save your spot today.

🔗: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_YP7VC60oQ3qOiDFZNeflVQ #/registration

Another ballpark, another great showing of Illini pride. ⚾🧡💙

Recently, Coach Bret Bielema and Fighting Illini student-athletes helped bring Illinois spirit to Wrigley Field during Illini Night with the Chicago Cubs.

There's still one Illini Night remaining this season. Join fellow Illini fans at Busch Stadium on July 10 as the Cardinals take on the Braves.

🔗: https://fightingillini.com/news/2026/4/29/football-dates-set-for-illini-nights-at-mlb-parks

Fighting Illini Football Fighting Illini Athletics

At 77, Theola Starks Olion, ’73 AHS, is still finding new ways to shake up the game. ⛳

After earning more than 30 golf trophies, plaques and ribbons, she launched Senior Golf Dating Site, a place where fellow golf enthusiasts can find a golf buddy, a golf date or maybe even something more.

As she puts it: "Where love meets the links."

Tee up the full story: https://uiaa.org/2026/06/08/par-maker/

College of Applied Health Sciences at Illinois

What happens when one of cinema's most influential horror films inspires a Pulitzer Prize-winning Illinois alumnus for a lifetime?

This October, novelist Daniel Kraus, MS ’06 IS, will join magazine editor-in-chief Ryan Ross for a conversation following a screening of George A. Romero's Night of the Living Dead. The discussion will explore Kraus' new book, Partially Devoured: How Night of the Living Dead Saved My Life and Changed the World, which examines the film's lasting impact on culture, storytelling, and his own life.

Learn more about the event and early registration opportunities: https://thevirginia.showare.com/eventperformances.asp?evt=1138

Some of the most valuable connections you make at Illinois aren't just professional. They're personal.

This National Best Friends Day, we're celebrating the classmates, roommates, study partners, and lifelong friends who made the Illinois experience unforgettable.

Tag a friend you met on campus. 💙🧡

A summer tradition returns to the Main Quad. 🎬

Presented by the Illini Union Board, Summer Movies on the Quad brings free outdoor films to campus every Thursday at 9 p.m. Bring a blanket, grab snacks from the Quad Shop, and enjoy everything from classic favorites to new releases under the stars.

More🍿: union.illinois.edu/weekend-films

Illini Union