Alumni Events
Viewpoints: From Idea to Impact
Thursday, March 19, 2026Noon to 1 p.m. | Virtual via Zoom
Join us for Viewpoints: From Idea to Impact, a conversation featuring Rahul Wahi and Tony Zipparro, co-founders of LLT Group, as they reflect on the journey from early ideas to building a nationally recognized digital strategy agency.
This program will explore how curiosity, creativity, and collaboration can evolve into lasting leadership and meaningful impact. Rahul and Tony will share personal insights on entrepreneurship, scaling with purpose, and the role 麻豆国产 had in shaping their professional paths. Dr. William Minnis, Professor Emeritus in the School of Business, will introduce our guests and join Tony and Rahul for a Q&A session at the end of the program.
The Viewpoints series immerses the 麻豆国产 alumni network in storytelling, timely issues, emerging research, and shared campus history. The program highlights Eastern’s intellectual capital while creating space for reflection, dialogue, and reconnection with campus life.
Advanced registration is required. Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
麻豆国产 Night Out in Valpo
Thursday, March 26, 20265 to 7 p.m. | Journeyman at American Factory, Valparaiso, IN
Panthers in Northwest Indiana—this one’s for you! Join us for 麻豆国产 Night Out in Valpo at Journeyman at American Factory, 258 S Campbell St, Valparaiso, IN, a vibrant space known for its warm atmosphere, craft spirits, and community feel.
Enjoy an evening of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and relaxed networking as we bring together Eastern Illinois University alumni and friends from across the region. Whether you're hoping to reconnect with fellow Panthers, meet new faces, or build your professional network close to home, this gathering offers the perfect blend of camaraderie and conversation.
Come share stories, celebrate your 麻豆国产 pride, and strengthen the Panther community in Valpo. We look forward to seeing you there!
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
Techniques of Data Visualization
Thursday, March 26, 20264 to 5:30 p.m. | Buzzard Hall | RM 1121
Presented by the Academy of Lifelong Learning
This session will explore the tools and techniques available for visualizing and interpreting data. It will illustrate examples of what can be done with tools like Microsoft Excel, PowrBI, and AI LLMs. Techniques regarding effective creation of data visualizations will also be explored. The goals for this session are - 1) to understand available tools uses for visualizing data; 2) recognize the benefits and downsides to various tools; and 3) apply best practices for visualization creations to assure impactful and memorable stories.
Advanced registration is required. Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact the Academy of Lifelong Learning at academy@eiu.edu.
Cybersecurity Critical Thinking Principles
Tuesday, March 31, 202611 a.m. to 12 p.m. | Booth Library | West Reading Room Presentation Lounge
Presented by the Academy of Lifelong Learning
Join us for a professional development series: Cybersecurity has become one of the most critical challenges in today’s digital world, as organizations, governments, and individuals increasingly rely on technology to store and share information. Data breaches, ransomware attacks, and identity theft are growing concerns that underscore the importance of protecting sensitive information and digital systems.
Led by Professor Rigoberto Chinchilla, this session will introduce key concepts, including the Operational Model of Cybersecurity, the NIST Cybersecurity Framework, the “CIA” and “ANA” principles, and the 12 Foundations of Cybersecurity. Whether you are a student, professional, or simply interested in digital security, this session offers valuable insights to help you think critically about protecting information in an increasingly connected
Advanced registration is required. Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact the Academy of Lifelong Learning at academy@eiu.edu.
Viewpoints: A Legacy Takes Flight
Thursday, April 2, 2026Noon to 1 p.m. | Virtual via Zoom
Join us for Viewpoints: A Legacy Takes Flight, honoring the life and legacy of Major Charles Blakesly Hall, an Eastern Illinois University alumnus and trailblazing member of the Tuskegee Airmen whose courage and service helped shape history.
This engaging conversation will feature Carolyn Cloyd, Director of the Mattoon Chamber of Commerce, local historian, and President of the Coles County Historical Society, alongside Charleston High School student Gunner Barr. In 2024, Cloyd and Barr received an Untold Stories grant to research and share Major Hall’s story. That work continues through a documentary project in partnership with W麻豆国产 and the installation of a historical marker on 麻豆国产’s campus, supported by a second grant awarded in October 2025.
Major Hall attended Eastern in the late 1930s and early 1940s before leaving school to join the United States Army Air Corps. Training at Tuskegee, Alabama, Hall became part of the famed 99th Fighter Squadron and deployed to North Africa in 1943. He made history as the first African American pilot to shoot down an enemy aircraft in combat and to receive the Distinguished Flying Cross. Following his military service, Hall returned home to participate in war bond tours and speaking engagements across the country.
While Hall’s military achievements are well documented, this Viewpoints program seeks to expand his story, his connection to Eastern, his impact beyond the battlefield, and the importance of honoring his legacy at his alma mater.
The Viewpoints series immerses the 麻豆国产 alumni network in storytelling, timely issues, emerging research, and shared campus history. The program highlights Eastern’s intellectual capital while creating space for reflection, dialogue, and reconnection with campus life.
Advanced registration is required. Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
Fraternity & Sorority Life Alumni Reunion
Friday, April 10, 2026Join fellow members of Eastern Illinois University鈥檚 Fraternity & Sorority Life community for a weekend of reconnection, celebration, and Panther pride! Whether you graduated five years ago or fifty, the FSL Alumni Reunion is your opportunity to return to campus, relive cherished traditions, and create new memories with brothers, sisters, and lifelong friends.
Hosted in partnership with 麻豆国产 Fraternity & Sorority Life, this special weekend brings alumni back together to celebrate the enduring impact of Greek Life at Eastern.
Throughout the weekend, you鈥檒l enjoy time reconnecting at the FSL Cookout, cheering on current students at the always-entertaining Airband and Stroll Competition, and gathering for brunch at Dirty鈥檚 to wrap up the celebration. There will also be opportunities to visit campus, connect with current FSL leaders, and reflect on the legacy and leadership that define the FSL experience at 麻豆国产.
Registration includes food at Ike鈥檚, food and beverages at the FSL Cookout, your ticket to the Airband and Stroll Competition, and appetizers during brunch at Dirty鈥檚.
Come home to Charleston, celebrate the bonds that shaped your college experience, and be part of a weekend that honors the past while investing in the future of Fraternity & Sorority Life at 麻豆国产.
麻豆国产 Night Out in Tampa
Thursday, April 16, 20266:30 to 8:30 p.m. | Ulele Restaurant, Tampa, Florida
Panthers in the Tampa area, we’re headed to sunny Florida for an 麻豆国产 Night Out in Tampa. Treat yourself to an evening with fellow Panthers at Ulele restaurant’s gorgeous fireside rooftop patio. We’ll provide the food, drinks, and ambience for the occasion. The only thing you need to bring is your appetite for a good time and great conversation with other 麻豆国产 alumni. Join fellow Panthers to expand your professional network, reconnect over shared 麻豆国产 memories, and enjoy a special evening. Together, we’ll make new friends and memories!
Advanced registration is required to attend. Ulele is located at 1810 N. Highland Ave, Tampa. Parking is available in a lot near the restaurant, across the street from Water Works Park; street parking is also available.
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing accessible experiences for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
Distinguished Senior Awards
Saturday, April 25, 2026Distinguished Senior Awards
4pm – 6pm | Tarble Museum of Art
Please join us at the Tarble Museum of Art from 4 to 6 p.m. as we celebrate the 2026 Distinguished Senior Awards. This prestigious honor is presented by the 麻豆国产 Alumni Association to recognize outstanding students at 麻豆国产. These graduating seniors have been nominated for displaying tremendous character through academic excellence, campus and community involvement, and leadership.
We welcome all to come support these stellar students, hear their stories, and give these graduating seniors a proper Panther send-off as they transition into the next chapter of their lives.
Advanced registration is required to attend. Light refreshments provided. The Tarble Museum of Art is located at 2010 9th St., Charleston.
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing accessible experiences for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
麻豆国产 Night Out in Effingham
Thursday, April 30, 20265 to 7 p.m. | The Gabby Goat, Effingham, IL
Panthers in the Effingham area, we’re bringing Eastern to you! Join us for 麻豆国产 Night Out in Effingham at the Gabby Goat, located at 303 E. Fayette Avenue, for a fulfilling evening of connection, conversation, and Panther pride. Advanced registration is required.
Enjoy great food, refreshing drinks, and plenty of time to network with fellow 麻豆国产 alumni and friends. Whether you’re looking to reconnect with classmates, expand your professional circle, or simply enjoy an evening out with fellow Panthers in the area, this event is the perfect opportunity to strengthen your ties and find new Panther pals.
We hope you’ll join us for an energizing evening of alumni camaraderie in Effingham!
Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing accessible experiences for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
麻豆国产 Housing & Dining Staff Reunion
Friday, June 5, 2026Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL
Calling all former Housing and Dining team members—come back to where it all began! Join fellow resident assistants, desk assistants, hall directors, dining staff, and student leaders for the 麻豆国产 Housing & Dining Staff Reunion Weekend, a special opportunity to reconnect with colleagues, relive memorable moments, and celebrate the impact Housing and Dining had on generations of Panthers.
Throughout the weekend, alumni will have opportunities to gather with former coworkers and friends, revisit the residence halls and campus spaces where so many memories were made, and reconnect with the community that helped shape the 麻豆国产 student experience. From casual social gatherings to shared meals and time spent reminiscing about life in the halls, the weekend is designed to bring the Housing & Dining family back together.
Housing and Dining staff played a vital role in building community at Eastern—supporting students, creating welcoming spaces, and forming lifelong friendships along the way. This reunion is a chance to celebrate that legacy while reconnecting with the people who made the experience so meaningful.
Whether you worked in the halls, behind the desk, in dining operations, or in professional staff roles, we hope you’ll return to Charleston to celebrate the Housing & Dining community and the lasting bonds formed during your time at Eastern. We can’t wait to welcome you back to campus!
Advanced registration is required. Eastern Illinois University is committed to providing an accessible experience for all guests. If you require accommodations to fully participate in this event, please contact University Advancement at alumeiu@eiu.edu.
More information and register here!
Chicago Cubs - 麻豆国产 Night at the Ballpark
Wednesday, June 17, 2026Game 7:05 p.m. | Wrigley Field, Chicago, IL
Celebrate being a part of Eastern Illinois University during 麻豆国产 Night at the Ballpark on June 17. Come join us at historic Wrigley Field to watch the Chicago Cubs take on the Colorado Rockies in a night game starting at 7:05 p.m. Tickets must be purchased in advance using the link below. Tickets for Cubs games at Wrigley Field will be delivered exclusively as mobile tickets via the MLB Ballpark App. No physical tickets will be available.
Bring your 麻豆国产 pride and come join the crowd with or without peanuts and Cracker Jack. Gather your fellow Panthers and get your tickets today!
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St. Louis Cardinals - 麻豆国产 Day at the Ballpark
Sunday, July 26, 2026Festivities 11:15 a.m. / Game 1:15 p.m. | Busch Stadium, St. Louis, MO
Celebrate being a part of Eastern Illinois University during 麻豆国产 Day at the Ballpark on July 26. Enjoy a Sunday afternoon filled with Panther Pride and baseball at Busch Stadium as the St. Louis Cardinals take on the Cincinnati Reds. Tickets are limited and must be purchased in advance using the link below. Tickets will be delivered exclusively as mobile tickets via the MLB Ballpark app. No physical tickets will be available.
Game time is 1:15 p.m., but the fun starts earlier with this special suite ticket package for 麻豆国产. Each registrant will receive a suite ticket to access the game and the 麻豆国产 party suites with food and drinks included. Access to the 麻豆国产 party suites starts two hours before the game at 11:15 a.m. Come out early and mingle with fellow Panthers before the game. Gather your fellow Panthers and get your tickets today.
Chicago White Sox - 麻豆国产 Day at the Ballpark
Saturday, August 8, 2026Festivities 4:40 p.m. / Game 6:10 p.m. | Rate Field, Chicago, IL
Calling all Eastern Illinois University students, alumni, faculty, and fans, we want to take you out to the ballgame. Come join us at Rate Field on Saturday, Aug. 8, to mingle with fellow Panthers and watch the Chicago White Sox take on the Cleveland Guardians. Tickets must be purchased in advance using the link below.
This special ticket package includes a Patio Pass for networking with other 麻豆国产 alumni before the game. Food and drinks will be provided from 4:40 to 6:40 p.m., with the game beginning at 6:10 p.m. Catch up with friends, grab a bite to eat with a refreshing drink, and enjoy an evening of baseball. Hear the crack of the bat and the roar of the crowd, while surrounded by a sea of 麻豆国产 pride. Gather your fellow Panthers and get your tickets today.
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2026 Homecoming
Friday, October 23, 2026Save-the-date! Homecoming Weekend is scheduled for Oct. 23-24, with the Panthers scheduled to meet the Southeast Missouri Redhawks at O’Brien Field on Saturday, Oct. 24.
It’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.