Lou Liay Spirit Award (Est. 1997)

Bestowed upon alumni by the University of Illinois Alumni Association on behalf of the University of Illinois. The award is presented to those who have consistently demonstrated extraordinary spirit and pride in support of the University, the Alumni Association, and related organizations, exemplifying a positive image of their Alma Mater while inspiring loyalty and pride in their fellow alumni. The award is named after Lou Liay, EDM ’62, executive director of the UI Alumni Association from 1983-1998.

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  James W. Fessler, ’85 LAS, JD ’88 LAW

  James W. Fessler, ’85 LAS, JD ’88 LAW, is a retired attorney who serves as an adjunct professor at the U of I’s College of Law. As a student, Fessler was a member of Lambda Chi Alpha, the Order of Omega Greek Honor Society and the IFC Judicial Board. After graduation, he served on the University Library’s Board of Advocates and the Advisory Committee to the Vice-Chancellor of Student Affairs, and as an alumni coach for the Illinois Leadership Institute. Fessler also is a longstanding member of the University of Illinois Foundation and served on the board of directors for the Alumni Association and the Chicago Illini Club. He is the recipient of the Illinois Loyalty Award and UIF’s William E. Winter Award for Outstanding Advocacy Leadership.

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  Gene Honda

  A member of the Illini Media Hall of Fame, Gene Honda has become a living legend in Illinois as the public address announcer for the Chicago White Sox, the Chicago Blackhawks, the NCAA men’s basketball Final Four and Fighting Illini football. Although Honda left the U of I before graduating to begin his career in radio, he remains a strong supporter of the University, volunteering his time to work with Illini Media, alumni clubs, the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics, the UIAA and other colleges and departments, often serving as an event announcer.

• 2020s
• 2010s
• 2000s
• 1990s