Alumni events offer opportunities to celebrate Eastern connections while membership supports students and strengthens lifelong relationships
CHARLESTON, IL (08/31/2026) Eastern Illinois University alumni have several opportunities this fall to reconnect with fellow Panthers, explore Eastern’s history and celebrate the continuing connection between EIU and its graduates.
The EIU Alumni Association has announced a series of upcoming events beginning in September, including virtual programming, regional alumni gatherings and the University’s annual Homecoming Weekend.
The fall schedule begins with the Viewpoints series, which will feature EIU alumna Bradi O’Rourke, M.S., CCC-SLP, founder of Braxy Speech Therapy, for “Viewpoints: Finding Your Voice.” The virtual program is scheduled for noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, September 17, via Zoom. O’Rourke will discuss her journey from graduate student to entrepreneur and the development of her pediatric speech therapy practice.
On Friday, September 18, alumni and friends of Eastern can explore the history of one of EIU’s most recognizable buildings during “Insight Forum: The Intriguing History of Pemberton Hall.” The program will take place from 4 to 5:30 p.m. in the Pemberton Great Room.
Built in 1908, Pemberton Hall is the second-oldest structure on EIU’s campus and is registered as a historic landmark. The building was the first residence hall on the campus of a state university in Illinois. The program will explore Pemberton Hall’s history, its former residents and visitors, and some of the lore surrounding the historic building.
The Alumni Association also will host a series of regional and affinity-based events throughout September and October:
- On the Road with EIU: Panthers vs. Redbirds – September 19
- McHenry County Alumni Network Social – September 22
- EIU Night Out in Indy – September 24
- Black Alumni Network Social – September 26
- EIU Night Out in Denver – October 8
- PMB Homecoming Social – October 22
- EIU Homecoming Weekend – October 23-24
Advance registration is required for Alumni Association events. Additional event details and registration information are available through the EIU Alumni Association.
Along with participating in events, alumni can strengthen their connection to Eastern by joining or renewing membership in the EIU Alumni Association.
Membership is available at several levels, ranging from $20 for recent graduates to $750 for a lifetime family membership. Benefits include membership credentials, a subscription to the Forever EIU alumni magazine, discounts at the renovated EIU Bookstore, assistance locating former EIU friends and roommates, invitations to alumni events and membership opportunities at the EIU Student Recreation Center.
Membership also directly supports Eastern students and the University community. Proceeds help fund scholarships and awards, including the Alumni Association’s 1895 Scholarship and Distinguished Senior Awards, as well as student mentoring, leadership opportunities, educational programming and assistance to student organizations. Membership support also contributes to campus projects and helps sustain special Homecoming activities that bring alumni and students together.
Alumni and friends interested in joining or renewing membership in the EIU Alumni Association can visit the Alumni Association website or call 800-ALUM-EIU (800-258-6348). Additional information about the benefits of EIU Alumni Association membership are available here.
EIU encourages prospective students and families who cannot find a scheduled visit that fits their needs to contact the Admissions team, and EIU’s admissions staff will work directly with families to identify a visit opportunity that fits their schedules.
To explore visit options and register for an EIU campus experience, visit eiu.edu/admissions. Questions about campus visits can be directed to the Office of Admissions at (217) 581-2224 or via email at visiteiu@eiu.edu.
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EIU prepares students to accomplish their life goals through a combination of quality academics, personal relationships, and both on-campus and online learning opportunities. For more information about Eastern Illinois University, including its broad array of academic and career readiness programs, community-based services and opportunities, visit Eastern Illinois University or call EIU’s public information office at (217) 581-7400.