University of Illinois alumni Membership: A Gift of Music and Pride
Champaign, IL – August 16, 2025 – The University of Illinois Alumni Association is offering a compelling membership package that combines campus spirit with a celebration of musical artistry. A new membership includes a distinctive guitar-shaped cutting board and a 10% discount on tickets to the acclaimed ELLNORA Guitar Festival.
A Unique Gift for Illini Enthusiasts
For those seeking a thoughtful gift for a University of Illinois devotee, the Alumni Association membership presents an extraordinary possibility. The package delivers both a practical keepsake and access to a nationally recognized cultural event. This offering seamlessly blends campus pride with the joy of live music.
Did You Know? The University of Illinois boasts one of the most active and engaged alumni networks in the nation, with chapters and events spanning the globe.
ELLNORA Guitar Festival: A Celebration of Strings
ELLNORA | The Guitar Festival, held at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts, is a biennial event that showcases the versatility of the guitar across diverse genres. From rock and jazz to blues, classical, and folk, the festival attracts both legendary performers and emerging talents. The festival’s commitment to artistic excellence and community engagement has solidified its reputation as a premier musical event.
membership Benefits Extend Beyond Entertainment
An annual membership to the University of Illinois Alumni Association is $150. Beyond the guitar-shaped cutting board and ELLNORA ticket discount, members contribute to a charitable gift supporting the University of Illinois. Specifically, funds are directed towards the Friends of Allerton Fund, which supports the preservation and enhancement of Allerton Park and its artistic programs.
| Membership Benefit | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Membership Fee | $150 |
| Included Gift | Guitar-shaped cutting board |
| ELLNORA Ticket Discount | 10% off |
| Charitable Contribution | Friends of Allerton Fund |
| Shipping Restrictions | Domestic US addresses only; no PO Boxes |
Pro Tip: Consider gifting a membership to a recent graduate to help them stay connected to the Illini community and enjoy the benefits of alumni networking.
Supporting the University Through Alumni Engagement
The University of Illinois Alumni Association plays a vital role in fostering a strong connection between graduates and their alma mater.Through membership contributions, alumni directly support student initiatives and groundbreaking research across campus. This collective effort ensures the University’s continued success and impact on the world. As noted in a study by the Council for Advancement and Support of Education (CASE), strong alumni engagement is directly correlated with increased philanthropic giving and institutional advancement [[1]].
what role does alumni support play in the continued success of higher education institutions? And how can universities best leverage their alumni networks to drive innovation and impact?
the University of Illinois’ commitment to both academic excellence and cultural enrichment is a long-standing tradition. The ELLNORA Guitar Festival, established in 2009, has become a cornerstone of the university’s arts programming, attracting a diverse audience and showcasing the power of music to connect people. The increasing emphasis on alumni engagement as a key driver of institutional success reflects a broader trend in higher education, with universities recognizing the invaluable contributions of their graduates.
Frequently Asked Questions About University of Illinois Alumni Membership
- What is the cost of a University of Illinois Alumni Association membership? an annual membership is $150.
- What is included with the Alumni Association membership? Members recieve a guitar-shaped cutting board, a discount on ELLNORA Guitar Festival tickets, and contribute to the Friends of Allerton Fund.
- Where is the ELLNORA Guitar Festival held? The festival takes place at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts on the University of Illinois campus.
- Does the membership offer any other benefits? Yes, members gain access to a network of Illini worldwide and opportunities to participate in alumni events.
- can I ship the membership gift to a PO Box? No, shipping is limited to domestic US addresses only, and PO Boxes are not accepted.
The University of Illinois alumni Association membership is more than just a gift; it’s an investment in campus pride, musical experiences, and the future of the University. Share this exciting opportunity with your Illini friends and family today!