September 26-28, 2024

Champaign, Illinois

This annual in-person gathering is an informal initiative proposed and planned by LDL graduate students and alumni not only to meet their peers in person and foster a sense of community, but also to strengthen institutional bonds with EPOL, the College of Education and the University of Illinois. Its aims are to bring LDL students and alumni together to connect with peers, faculty, staff, and the campus while also making progress towards their degree.

We thank everyone who assisted with last year’s gathering and those who attended! We can’t wait to gather together again this year!

Please contact Kara Francis [kstucki@illinois.edu] with any questions.

Logo designed by Jasper Dioco, LDL EdM student

Common Agenda items include:

Keynote presentation
Visit from the Dean of the College of Education
EPOL department head visit or Q&A
Research Discussions
Hands-on Writer’s Workshops
Hands-on Career development sessions
Optional Tour and/or working sessions at the Siebel Center for Design and other key campus locations
Individual and group advising sessions
Writing retreat
Campus Connections
Graduation ceremony and Doctoral hooding
Campus tours
Networking opportunities
Social opportunities, families invited
Campus events, such as a symphony at the Krannert Center or a women’s volleyball game at Huff Hall
And more!

and… we hope for beautiful Fall weather

This annual gathering is typically held on a non-football weekend in mid to late September or early October.

Check out the video created by an LDL EdD student, Trevor Aleo.

Joe, an LDL EdD student shares his experience of the 2022 event.