At a University with more than 37,000 undergraduates, students are always searching for fun things to do on campus. From movie nights to roller skating, the Illini Union Board is responsible for many of these events. As the official campus event-planning board that is also made up of students, the Union Board provides more than 160 activities and events each semester.
The Union Board is made up of eight planning committees, ranging from arts and cultural events to health and wellness, marketing, special events and the Illinites team. Together, they coordinate hundreds of events designed to give students accessible and low-cost ways to spend time on campus.
“We create fun, inclusive events for students to just come and enjoy themselves,” said Nandana Varma, junior in LAS and president of the Union Board. “… and just provide new, unique experiences to students on campus.”
The Union Board serves as the Illini Union’s “student voice.” It advises the director and staff on policies, space use and student needs. That advisory role allows the students involved to influence decisions that shape the Union directly.
Directors and executives of the Union Board typically commit 10-15 hours per week through meetings, office hours and event work. They also attend weekly program council meetings, full board meetings and several “all-hands-on-deck” events each semester.
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“I really enjoy seeing our events come together, especially when I used to be the director, seeing people interact with events that you created,” said Cody Drake, junior in Media and vice president of programs.
While the satisfaction of seeing events come to life does make the Union Board meaningful, its structure is a big part of why those events resonate.
Varma said the Union Board’s student-run structure is what keeps its programming relevant and allows it to adapt its events based on student interests.
“It really is very dynamic and fluid to meeting student needs,” Varma said.
Ambreen Sidhu, junior in LAS and vice president of internal affairs, said the Union Board’s community aspect is just as important as its events.
“You can usually find most of us in the board office,” Sidhu said. “It’s nice to have an area you can come back to, see everyone and have fun with.”
Recent changes reflect the Union Board’s effort to stay engaged with student interests. The former Films Committee recently changed into the Health & Wellness Committee in response to a growing interest in wellness-focused activities.
Additionally, Varma mentioned how the Union Board is trying to make Spring Jam, one of its largest events, more engaging.
“At last year’s Spring Jam, we had a Coca-Cola activation and airbrush tattoos,” Varma said. “Just some cute, fun activities before you actually go to the concert itself.”
Both Varma and Sidhu emphasized that the Union Board is always open to student feedback. Students can share ideas, suggest collaborations or share concerns through the Union Board’s website or email.
“We’re here to advocate for the student perspective,” Sidhu said.
As the Union Board continues to adapt its programming, the mission remains the same: creating opportunities for students to connect, have fun and feel at home on campus.
