Each year the University of Illinois Springfield invites students, faculty, staff, alumni and the local community to celebrate our Homecoming celebration.
Once a Star, Always a Star
October 4-10, 2026
UIS Homecoming is an annual tradition involving a week of engagement and events designed to develop pride and spirit among the UIS community. The first UIS Homecoming was held in 1996.
Homecoming is brought to you by UIS Athletics, the UIS Alumni Association, Student Affairs, the Student Activities Committee, Student Life and Campus Recreation.
Homecoming brings together students, alumni, faculty and staff to celebrate Prairie Star pride through a week of athletic competitions, campus traditions and special events. Highlights include the Prairie Star Pep Rally, the Prairie Stars 5K and Pancake Breakfast and the Alumni Gala. Homecoming is an opportunity to reconnect with fellow Prairie Stars, cheer on UIS teams and celebrate the university community.
“Students should get involved because homecoming is for them! There is a lot of hard work being done for the UIS community. It’s a great way to show your school spirit, bring different people together, and most importantly – have fun!”
— Homecoming Coordinator
2026 Homecoming Schedule of Events
Create a lasting impact for students!
Last Homecoming, we celebrated our Prairie Stars’ legacy with the theme "Legacy Ignited" – a powerful reflection of the spark that drives our students to lead, serve, and excel. As we came together to honor the past and inspire the future, we collected over $2,000 for the Student Affairs Fund for Excellence.
Homecoming Gallery
Have a question?
Contact Homecoming Committee Chair Steven Johnson Jr. at sjohn253@uis.edu.
Hosting a Reunion?
Contact the UIS Alumni Association to get added to the schedule of events by emailing krystal.geist@uis.edu.
#UISHOCO
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