Join the UIS Alumni SAGE Society and the Illinois State Historical Society for a series of noontime lectures in the University’s tradition of open and intelligent dialogue.

In-person participation for all programs will take place at Illini Country Club in Springfield, IL. The in-person registration fee for noontime programs ($40/person, per program) includes a chef-prepared hot lunch and free parking.

Buffet lunch service for noontime programs will begin at 11:30 a.m. CT. All noontime presentations will begin promptly at 12 p.m. CT, and conclude by 1 p.m. CT.

Live complimentary virtual participation for all programs is also available via Zoom Webinar.

Wednesday, December 4 | Illinois Rejects Slavery

In the summer of 1824, the Illinois General Assembly was on the brink of changing our state constitution to permit slavery outright. Though the Northwest Ordinance designated Illinois a “free territory" in 1787, proslavery sentiment in southern Illinois was strong and challenged the efforts to keep the new state of Illinois free. Dr. Caroline Kisiel, Illinois Humanities Road Scholar, will present on the people and events that culminated in Illinois remaining a free state.

Presenter: Dr. Caroline Kisiel, Illinois Humanities Road Scholar