CHAMPAIGN, Ill. (Chambana Today) — The University of Illinois is marking a major milestone this fall as it celebrates the 100th anniversary of Huff Hall, one of the most storied buildings on campus.
The College of Applied Health Sciences and the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics are teaming up to honor the historic venue, which has served as a cornerstone for both academics and athletics since 1925.
Festivities begin Thursday, Nov. 6, with the opening of a time capsule sealed in 1924 when construction first began on what was then called the “New Gymnasium.” A public celebration follows on Friday, Nov. 7, inside Huff Gym from 3 to 4:15 p.m., featuring speakers, historical exhibits, and a look back at the building’s role in shaping Illini history. Shuttle service between the Bielfeldt Athletics Administration Building and Huff Hall will be available for attendees.
First opening its doors in December 1925, Huff Hall was renamed in 1937 to honor longtime athletic director George Huff. Over the years, it has hosted everything from Fighting Illini basketball to NCAA and Big Ten championship events, as well as the Illinois High School Association’s state basketball tournaments—often called the “Original March Madness.”
Today, Huff Hall remains home to the College of Applied Health Sciences and continues to serve thousands of students through programs in kinesiology, recreation, speech and hearing science, and disability resources.
More details and historical features can be found at fightingillini.com/huffhall100.