CHAMPAIGN, IL (Illini Athletics) – In the dynamic landscape of intercollegiate athletics, Name, Image, & Likeness (NIL) remains at the forefront of developing a high-impact level of support and an enhanced student-athlete experience. Gifts to ICON are the single most important way supporters can contribute to the sustained success of the Fighting Illini.

In an effort to both celebrate the achievements of the past and propel the Fighting Illini into opportunities of the future, the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) and ICON have launched a new initiative, the 217 Membership Drive, to support student-athletes in the NIL space while paying homage to the iconic 217 area code that encompasses the greater Champaign area.

Whether Illini constituents were born into it, married into it, or walked across the stage with a degree – it’s a shared identity; a home that binds the 217 community together.

The targeted effort serves as a vessel to generate new ICON for Illini memberships as well as to further elevate the commitment of the DIA toward shaping the future of Fighting Illini student-athletes. With a lofty goal of generating 217 new memberships, the initiative empowers Fighting Illini fans at every level to play an active role in the success stories of current and future student-athletes by contributing to NIL. New members can join at a special rate of just $21.70 per month or $217 for the entire year.

The initiative is slated to run through February 29, and alumni, fans, brands, or businesses interested in making a difference can get involved in the following ways:

  • Become a Member: Join ICON for Illini as a member and help elevate the impact on student-athletes in perpetuity.
  • Make a Contribution: Make a one-time contribution to ICON. Every dollar makes a difference!
  • Spread the Word: Share the excitement! Tag @ICONforIllini on your social media platforms to spread awareness about the initiative and encourage your friends, family, and colleagues to join the movement.

Those who join ICON for Illini as new members and current members who activate referrals will receive an exclusive 217 Rope Hat to proudly represent the community and its memorable moments. Those who contribute a one-time gift of $100 or more to ICON or the I FUND will also receive the exclusive 217 Rope Hat.

In partnership with ICON, the DIA remains committed to providing the best possible resources for more than 500 student-athletes each year at the university. While the avenues to support student-athletes have evolved across the nation, the DIA holds steadfast alongside this evolution in the pursuit of its core values; to unify, develop, inspire, and achieve.

The support of alumni, fans, brands, and businesses remains an integral piece in empowering ICON to facilitate meaningful opportunities for student-athletes as they encompass the DIA values and pursue their goals in competition, in the classroom, and in our community.

For more information about the 217 Membership Drive, ICON, and other ways to get involved, visit this site or contact Derek Stark, Assistant Athletic Director for NIL Engagement at drstark@illinois.edu.