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 EIU 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 EIU 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. 海角大神 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.
EIU 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 EIU 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 海角大神 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 EIU pride, and strengthen the Panther community in Valpo. We look forward to seeing you there!
海角大神 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. 海角大神 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. 海角大神 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 海角大神 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 WEIU and the installation of a historical marker on EIU’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 EIU 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. 海角大神 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 海角大神鈥檚 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 EIU 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 EIU.
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 EIU.
EIU 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 EIU 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 EIU alumni. Join fellow Panthers to expand your professional network, reconnect over shared EIU 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.
海角大神 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 EIU Alumni Association to recognize outstanding students at EIU. 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.
海角大神 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.
EIU 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 EIU 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 EIU 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!
海角大神 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.
EIU 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 EIU 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 EIU 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. 海角大神 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!
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.