Illini 411: When did we start dressing up Alma Mater?
Question courtesy of Rachel Thompson, ’19 LAS
(Photo-illustration by Dana Smith, Images courtesy of Fred Zwicky; U. of I. Archives; L. Brian Stauffer) Question courtesy of Rachel Thompson, ’19 LAS
A: In 2005, during the men’s basketball team’s Final Four season, a group of unknown students dressed Alma in a whopper of an orange jersey, complete with a matching headband. Associate Chancellor Robin Kaler liked the idea, and shortly thereafter, her staff began to decorate Alma throughout the year. Over the past two decades, Alma has worn a cap and gown for Commencement, held a guitar for Krannert’s Ellnora music festival, and been decked out in dozens of other celebratory ways that bring joy to Illini of all generations.
Have questions about U. of I. history, traditions and legends?
Write to Illini 411 at rross2@uillinois.edu. The most delectable questions will be selected for publication.
