Day of Gratitude
Day of Gratit
SEPTEMBER 24, 2026
The Grainger College of Engineering's Day of Gratitude is the annual public celebration of the naming of our college. On this day, we honor the legacy of The Grainger Foundation and the impact philanthropy has on our students, faculty, researchers and learning spaces.
Alumni, students, faculty, staff and friends of the college can participate in this day by sharing resources, advocating and building community. This act is an investment in our future leaders, helps cultivate innovation and amplifies the impact of our work in the world. Participating in Grainger Engineering's Day of Gratitude helps build a brighter future for Grainger engineers and continues our legacy of developing transformative learning experiences and producing innovative research that improves the human condition.
Join us on campus
Special activities from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. on the Engineering Hall Patio.
You may even find a special treat to enjoy!
Free t-shirts
Tell the world you are a grateful Grainger engineer! Pick up a special edition Day of Gratitude t-shirt while supplies last.
Gratitude Stop
A simple thank you can make your day! Show our donors your appreciation by writing a thank you note or recording a video. Your words can put a smile on our donors' faces.
Build connections
IlliniLink connects alumni through an active network dedicated to nurturing the next generation of successful Illini. Through networking, mentorship or simply sharing your career story, you can help the Illini who follow you.
Activate on our social networks
Follow us on social media to stay up to date on the latest news and share on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram the posts that make you the proudest to be a part of the Grainger Engineering family.
Share your gratitude
Your gift enables The Grainger College of Engineering to strategically invest in critical initiatives that transform the student experience, drive world-changing research and expand engineering excellence through opportunity, collaboration and community. Your gift demonstrates the importance of your experiences and education. Express your gratitude by sharing why you support the college financially.