History of SAA

The Student Alumni Association was founded in 1976. Its first program, Campus Tours, ran from 1978 to 1983, when it was taken over by the Office of Admissions and Records. Student Ambassadors was started at that time to fill the role of Campus Tours in the Alumni Association. In 1979, SAA revitalized Homecoming, a tradition that was started at Illinois in 1910 but had become a low-key event by the late '60s. The success of that first revitalized Homecoming literally made SAA a viable and respected organization overnight. Illini Pride was also created by a number of SAA members as a result of 1979 Homecoming. The following successful programs were added over the succeeding years: Illinois Sights & Sounds (formerly Illini First Nite), Illini Comeback, Senior 100 Honorary and Graduates' Reception. In an effort to increase efficiency and maximize services, sister organizations Student Ambassadors and the Student Alumni Association became one again in the fall of 2004, creating Student Alumni Ambassadors. Today, SAA is a widely known student organization consisting of more than 85 members. SAA provides students with new leadership responsibilities such as planning, organizing and creating events for the entire student body. Through its hosting and tour services, SAA develops connections between students and alumni and instills pride in the University. The organization brings together a diverse group of students from all different areas of interests, majors and backgrounds to work together to make a difference at the University of Illinois through the Alumni Association.

2023-2024 Executive Board