How A-maze-ing

Homecoming is a celebration of pride and tradition, and as UIS continues to grow tremendously, so do these aspects of the university.

Last year was the first year UIS had a parade complete with homecoming floats, and the Student Life office anticipates growing more and more each year. This year's homecoming, held Oct. 1 through Oct. 6, is right around the corner, and there are a variety of activities planned for next week's celebration.

The week kicks off with a bonfire and pep rally at the UIS pond on Monday. Other events during the week include the Ultimate Entrepreneurship Challenge, the Student vs. Alumni basketball game, decorating contests, alumni events, family lunches, Homecoming dance and parade and more.

If you can't make one of the events, check out the story and videos that will be on the Web site following the event.

For more information about the festivities of 2007 Homecoming, click here.

Dedication of the TRAC

Tomorrow afternoon, a ribbon cutting ceremony and dedication will be held in the parking lot of the new Recreation and Athletic Center (or TRAC) at 2 p.m.

Tune in to SportsRadio 1450-AM for the Sam Madonia show from 6 to 9 a.m. as Sam interviews students, faculty and staff of the UIS community about the new facility, which opened its doors on Tuesday, September 18. (Read full story and watch video here).

Following the radio show, there will be an open house at the center from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., where the campus community will have the opportunity to see the state-of-the-art 3,000 seat performance arena that converts into three basketball and volleyball courts, running track, two racquetball courts, multi-purpose exercise room, and cardio and weight training areas.

There will also be free food and music at the Dedication Picnic, which will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. in the TRAC parking lot.