Lighting of the Flame

Julie Schwertfeger (LAS '91, PT '94)
AHS Alumni Leadership Board Vice-Chair
February 18, 2009

Establishing new traditions--besides maintaining the tried and true--is part of what the University of Illinois Alumni Association (UIAA) is all about. Often, the most effective way to start a new practice is by linking it to something familiar--like UIC sports events at the UIC Pavilion. Out of this was born the Lighting of the Flame.

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 each Flames home basketball game. The poignant ceremony reflects the eternal bond that alumni have with their alma mater.

Torch Bearers carry a symbolic torch onto the UIC Pavilion floor, where they light a cauldron while the school song is sung. Afterwards they are invited to sign the permanent record as an Official Torch Bearer, and are provided with several mementos of the occasion.

UIC Alumni Volunteer Network Appreciation Day

The UIC Alumni Volunteer Network Appreciation Day on February 7, 2009 celebrated the dedication, commitment and service of alumni volunteers to the University and UIC. This special day kicked off with food, drinks and networking and ended with the UIC men's basketball team taking on Youngstown State. The 10th anniversary of the Lighting of the Flame ceremony also took place, with more than 60 past Torch Bearers honored and Chancellor Paula Allen-Meares lighting the flame to wild cheers.

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