Lighting of the Flame

Lighting of the Flame

The University of Illinois Alumni Association office in Chicago works in tandem with the UIC Department of Athletics to provide this special opportunity to alumni and friends of the University. Distinguished members of the UIC community who have exemplified extraordinary interest in and loyalty to UIC and/or the UIAA are invited to participate in a brief ceremony before some Flames men's home basketball games.

This brief but poignant ceremony reflects the eternal bond that alumni and friends have with their Alma Mater. Torch Bearers carry a symbolic torch onto the UIC Pavilion floor and light a cauldron while the school song is sung. Afterward, the Torch Bearers are invited to sign the permanent record as an Official Torch Bearer and are provided with several mementos to remember the occasion.

Nominate a torch bearer

Past torch bearers

Tenth-year Torch Bearer Reunion - 2009

On Feb. 7, 2009, Torch Bearers from the past decade joined together to celebrate the 10-year anniversary of the Lighting of the Flame. In addition to the reunion, the Torch Bearers lined the basketball court to cheer on UIC Chancellor Paula Allen-Meares, who served as a Torch Bearer to mark this special occasion.

Torch Bearers

Fifth Year Torch Bearer Reunion — 2004

On Feb. 21, 2004, more than 50 past Torch Bearers gathered to celebrate the five-year anniversary of the Lighting of the Flame tradition at UIC. In honor of the anniversary, a special Torch Bearer plaque, which listed all past Torch Bearers, was unveiled as a new and permanent fixture in the UIC Pavilion. The plaque was designed and donated by UIC alumna Debbie Venable and Exsel Exhibits, her company.