Alumni Events
2025 Homecoming
Friday, October 10, 2025 | Register NowIt’s time to come home, Panthers! From the roar of the crowd at O’Brien Field to the tradition-filled parade and lively alumni gatherings, this is your weekend to reconnect, celebrate, and make new memories.
Friday, October 10
1:30 p.m. – Napoleon Memorial Bench Ribbon Cutting
North Quad
Picture-perfect moment! Join notable alumni Harry & Gladys Frost, and the Alumni Association as we unveil Napoleon’s bench—honoring EIU’s beloved campus dog.
4:00 p.m. – Library 75th Anniversary Dedication
Booth Library
Celebrating 75 years of knowledge and community. Join us as we honor Booth Library’s rich history and continued legacy as a cornerstone of learning, research, and Panther pride.
4:30 p.m. – Class of 1975 Reunion & Livingston C. Lord Pinning Ceremony
MLK Jr. University Union, University Ballroom
Fifty years, countless memories. Celebrate your Golden Reunion with fellow Class of ’75 members. Reconnect, reminisce, and join the Livingston C. Lord Society in honoring this milestone.
6:00 p.m. – University Awards Reception & Dinner
MLK Jr. University Union, Grand Ballroom
An evening of honor and inspiration. Recognize outstanding Panthers at the Alumni Awards, salute the Heritage Society, and celebrate the Burnham and Nancy Neal Outstanding Philanthropist Award recipients.
Registration Fee: $45
9:00 p.m. – Young Alumni Reunion
Ike’s Bar & Grill
Your Panther crew awaits! Kick off Homecoming weekend with a night out at this EIU tradition—perfect for catching up and making new memories.
Saturday, October 11
9:30 a.m. – Homecoming Parade
Starts at Lincoln Ave. and 7th St.
March into the weekend! Line the streets and cheer for floats, bands, and community groups in this can’t-miss Homecoming tradition.
11:00 a.m. – Homecoming Tailgate & Tent City
O’Brien Field
The party before the game. Grab a bite, catch up with friends, and swing by the Alumni Tent before kickoff.
(Tailgating squares available through Athletics)
2:00 p.m. – Homecoming Football Game
O’Brien Field
All paws in! Cheer on the Panthers as they face Gardner-Webb in the Homecoming Game. Let’s fill the stands with blue and show our Panther pride!
(Tickets available through Athletics)
University Wide Volunteer Luncheon
Friday, October 10, 2025 | Register Now11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
MLK Jr. University Union, University Ballroom
Eastern Illinois University invites alumni and advisory board members, volunteers, annuitants, and university constituents to join us for a special networking luncheon during Homecoming weekend. This luncheon is a unique opportunity to gather with fellow leaders, volunteers, and supporters across EIU to engage in meaningful discussion, build community, and strengthen our shared commitment to the University’s mission.
This event will feature welcome remarks from:
- Dr. Jay Gatrell, President, Eastern Illinois University
- Mindy Spencer, Vice President for University Advancement
We are also excited to host David Vuletich, Managing Director in EAB’s Research Advisory Services. David is a nationally recognized expert in both academic and administrative strategy, with a strong focus on financial sustainability and institutional growth. He provides deep insights into the challenges and opportunities facing higher education today and works closely with boards, cabinets, and senior leaders to develop sustainable strategies for the future.
High-Level Objectives of the Luncheon
· Explore the most pressing headwinds in higher education and their impact on universities.
· Gain an understanding of challenges to institutional sustainability and learn how we can play a key role in addressing them.
· Discuss opportunities for innovation and efficiency as volunteers and engaged constituents.
Guests are encouraged to join us immediately following the luncheon for the Napoleon Memorial Bench Ribbon Cutting at 1:30 p.m. on the North Quad. Celebrate with notable alumni and the Alumni Association as we unveil Napoleon’s bench—honoring EIU’s beloved campus dog and creating a new favorite hangout spot for students.
Register today to reserve your seat at this important Homecoming event.
Learn more about other Homecoming programming at https://www.eiu.edu/homecoming/
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for guests. If you require an accommodation to fully participate in this event or have a dietary restriction, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
Alumni Association Football Trip Raffle
Saturday, October 11, 2025 | Register NowEnter for a chance to win a trip for two to watch the Eastern Illinois University Panthers football team take on the Alabama Crimson Tide in Tuscaloosa.
The winner will receive:
- Two tickets for the Welcome Reception on Friday, November 21, from 7:00 – 10:00 p.m. at Avenue Pub in downtown Tuscaloosa.
- Two tickets for the EIU Tailgate on Saturday, November 22, from 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. on the University of Alabama Quad
- Two tickets in the EIU section at Bryant-Denny Stadium at Tuscaloosa on November 22 at 1:00 pm.
- Two nights hotel accommodations from Friday, November 21 through Sunday, November 23, at the Hampton Inn Tuscaloosa located next to Bryant-Denny Stadium.
- Up to $500 travel reimbursement to help with travel costs to/from Tuscaloosa (can cover airfare, bus, train, or milage reimbursement for personal vehicle).
The drawing will be held on October 11 at the EIU Homecoming football game.
Proceeds benefit the programming of the Eastern Illinois University Alumni Association as well as the 1895 Scholarship.
On the Road with EIU: Panthers vs. Crimson Tide
Friday, November 21, 2025 | Register NowTuscaloosa, Alabama
Join University Advancement and the Alumni Association as we cheer on Eastern Illinois football in an unforgettable matchup against the Crimson Tide—one of college football’s most tradition-rich programs. The Panthers will close the 2025 regular season on Saturday, November 22 at Alabama with a 1:00 p.m. kickoff.
Friday, November 21
Welcome Reception
7:00 – 10:00 p.m.
Avenue Pub, Downtown Tuscaloosa
Kick off the weekend with Panther spirit! Meet up with fellow alumni and fans for drinks and appetizers as we settle into town and get ready for game day.
Saturday, November 22
EIU Tailgate on the Quad
10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
University of Alabama Quad
Don’t miss this unique game-day experience—tailgating on the historic Quad! Enjoy food, drinks, and plenty of Panther pride before heading into Bryant–Denny Stadium for kickoff.
Game Time
1:00 p.m.
Bryant–Denny Stadium
Cheer on the Panthers as they face Alabama in the regular season finale.
Travel & Lodging
Hotel blocks are available at:
Tickets
A limited number of tickets are available directly through University of Alabama Athletics. You may also purchase via StubHub or other ticket resale sites.
Register today to join the Panthers on the road and be part of this exciting weekend in Tuscaloosa!
Housing Legacy Courtyard
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 | Register NowLeave your mark on campus. Alums who had memorable experiences on campus are taking the opportunity to buy a brick or paver as a permanent way to recognize those special times in the Memorial Courtyard located between Lawson and Andrews Hall.
- 4"x8" Imprinted brick: $100
- 16"x16" Imprinted paver: $250
- 16"x72" Bench Paver: $2,500
A representative from the EIU Alumni Services Office will reach out to you for your brick or paver message.