Alumni Events

Summer 2027 Events

Stay connected all summer with our alumni events and opportunities!

    Celebrate Pride Month with the Windy City Thunderbolts

    Date: Tuesday, June 30, 2026

    Time: 6:35 p.m.

    Location: Ozinga Field 14011 Kenton Ave, Crestwood

    Celebrate Pride Month with a fun night out at the ballpark! Join Governors State University and the Windy City ThunderBolts for a special fundraiser supporting the Jackie McKethen Scholarship for LGBTQIA+ students.

    Tickets are just $9 and include a $5 donation toward the scholarship. Enjoy $2 concessions and free parking while supporting a meaningful cause.

    Bring your friends and family for an affordable, impactful evening.

    If you can’t attend, donate today to support the Jackie McKethen Scholarship for LGBTQIA+ students.

    Use the code GSU when purchasing tickets.

    Celebrate Pride Month with the Windy City Thunderbolts

    Fall 2026 Events

    Celebrate Homecoming and connect with your Jaguar community through the experiences below:

      Jaguar 5K

      Date: Sunday, October 25, 2026
      Time: Check-in Starts at 9:00 a.m. | Race Starts at 10:00 a.m.
      Location: Governors State University

      Join us for a Jaguar Homecoming tradition at GovState's Annual Jaguar 5K! Lace up for a chip-timed adventure through Governors State University's scenic campus. Whether you're running or walking, come enjoy live music, food trucks, free yoga, a Kids Dash, and more, all sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Illinois. All participants receive a custom t-shirt and snacks, so register early to secure your size.

      Distinguished Alumni Reception

      Learn more about the Distinguished Alumni and Emeriti classes of Governors State University. 

      Nominations for the 2027 Distinguished Alumni and Emeriti open early spring 2027. 

      Group of award winners on stage with blue lighting.

      Spring 2027 Events

      Check back soon for our Spring 2027 events

      Past Events

      Check out our most memorable moments from our favorite events:

        2025 Distinguished Alumni Reception

        GovState celebrated the remarkable achievements of alumni and emeriti at the 5th Annual Distinguished Alumni Reception. Check out our exciting photo album from the evening!

        Family Fun Fair

        Homecoming came alive with games, activities, and treats for all ages. Families and community members had a fantastic time! Check out our event highlights below!

        Jaguar 5K

        The annual Jaguar 5K was full of energy with running, games, and family-friendly fun, supported by the Lupus Society of Illinois. Check out our photo album below, capturing all the action!

        GovState’s 56th Birthday Party

        We were honored to hear from GovState’s 7th President, Dr. Joyce Ester, during the celebration. Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the evening joyful and memorable!

        Dr. Dale Schuit Memorial TopGolf Outing

        This event brought GovState alumni together for an afternoon of laughter, memories, and celebration in honor of Dr. Schuit’s incredible legacy. We had a wonderful time connecting with everyone who came out to celebrate his impact. Show your appreciation by contributing to the anatomy lab and carrying forward the excellence Dr. Schuit championed.

        Occupational Therapy Mix n' Mingle

        Our OT community enjoyed networking with professionals and discussing the innovative Driver Rehabilitation Program. Thank you for facilitating valuable connections and conversations!

        2025 Business Week Alumni Reception

        The Alumni Reception was an excellent opportunity to connect with fellow alumni and engage in meaningful networking. Our GovState network made it a valuable experience for everyone involved!

        April Food Day 2025

        We had a fantastic April Food Day 2025 with the GovState family, showcasing our community's strength. Thank you to our alumni, students, and staff volunteers!

        Physical Therapy Alumni Mixer

        The PT Alumni Mixer was a success, bringing our GovState family together to celebrate Dr. Dale Schuit’s legacy and discuss GovState's Anatomy Lab.