university of illinois alumni travel

We Are University of Illinois Alumni Association

Dear EXPLORERS and Friends,

Our Mission

The expertise and knowledge to put your mind at ease, photo gallery, hear from fellow travelers.

Who is AHI?

University of Illinois Alumni Association

The University of Illinois Alumni Association and Go Next are pleased to offer exceptional travel opportunities available to you, your family, and your friends. Join fellow alumni and experience the camaraderie of exploring the world with like-minded travelers. Each Go Next trip has been thoughtfully selected with you and your alma mater in mind. We take care of the details, so you can relax and enjoy the company of your fellow alumni.

Because of the exceptional value and limited space, we encourage you to make your reservation as soon as possible.

Reservations and Questions

Purchasing travel insurance is highly recommended to protect you, your belongings, and your travel investment. The University of Illinois Alumni Alliance will send you information regarding travel insurance as soon as your reservation is submitted.

University of Illinois Alumni Association Group Programs

Explore the “Last Frontier” on this riveting 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Regatta .

Step into a fairytale on this 12-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica .

Join us for an unforgettable adventure through the green coasts of Ireland and Scotland on a 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Nautica .

Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Greece, Turkey, Montenegro, Croatia, and Italy on this 10-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Riviera .

Dear EXPLORERS and Friends,

University of Illinois EXPLORERS is pleased to partner with Orbridge to offer our alumni exceptional travel opportunities—a combination of exclusive itineraries, deluxe properties or ships, knowledgeable expedition leaders, and the company of fellow alumni. 

With special features and unparalleled access to distinguished locations, you will discover unforgettable places, people, and cultures, and enjoy experiences that will enrich your understanding of our diverse and wonderful world. Whether close to home or far away, on land or by sea, your next adventure is waiting! 

Join us and our partner Orbridge—make your reservation today! 

Yours for University of Illinois,

David Bambrey President, Alumni & Student Engagement University of Illinois Alumni Association https://uiaa.org/explorers/

Upcoming Tours by Departure Date

Kenya Safari: The Big 5

Discover Southeast Alaska (Juneau to Sitka)

Around the World by Private Jet

Discover the Canadian Rockies by Rail

Vancouver to Toronto by Rail

Flavors of Northern Italy

The Galapagos Islands – Western Itinerary

Aegean Sea Odyssey: The Greek Isles and Historic Türkiye

Toronto to vancouver by rail.

Southwest National Parks

Flavors of Sicily

Polar Bears of Churchill

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EXPLORERS Travel Program

For 50 years, the University of Illinois Alumni Alliance’s EXPLORERS travel program has sent alumni and friends on unforgettable adventures around the world. With all details meticulously choreographed, EXPLORERS offers you exclusive access to a variety of once-in-a-lifetime adventures, providing a safe and enriching way for you, your friends and your families to connect and experience the world. View our  2019 calendar of trips .

Visit our most recent trips

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Our alumni are worldwide

Together the three universities in the U of I System have more than 849,000 living alumni contributing their talents in Illinois and across the globe. Our graduates are teachers, entrepreneurs, artists, researchers, business leaders, and Nobel Prize winners. Mouse over the map to view the home nations of our alumni.

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More than 445,000 of our alumni reside in our home state, where they give their time, talents, and dollars to contribute to a stronger Illinois. Mouse over the map to view the number of alumni in a county.

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Contact Information

Collegiate Travel Planners Toll free: 844-214-9225 Email:  [email protected] 8:00am - 5:00pm CST Monday-Friday (Temporary hours effective April 13, 2020)

iTravel Online Help Desk 877-727-5188 7:00am - 7:00pm CST Monday-Friday After Hours Emergency Within U.S. 800-358-1229 Outside U.S.1-303-801-2331 To be used between 6:01pm - 6:59am CST Monday - Friday and all day on weekends.  Use only in emergency   extra charges apply

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Full-Service Travel Agency

The System has contracted with Collegiate Travel Planners (CTP) to provide a robust online travel booking tool and full-service travel agency for all University business travel. CTP is one of the top travel management companies in the industry. Employees have the option of working directly with an experienced travel agent or accessing iTravel which is backed by the software that powers the industry's most comprehensive and innovative online corporate travel booking tool. In addition, departments may book a single group trip which exceeds the bid limit, currently $100,000.00, without a competitive bid or Request for Proposal (RFP).

iTravel Online Booking Tool

iTravel was integrated with the University’s single sign-on authentication process so employees may access the system with their Net ID and password. Employees may assign travel arrangers, add frequent traveler program numbers, seat preferences, passport information, etc., to their individual profile. This information will automatically populate into reservations booked online and will assist CTP agents in providing better service to system travelers.

CTP's Agency Service Fees can be reviewed here.

• Activating an E-Receipt (for travelers with a T-Card in their name)
• Adding Travel Preferences and Frequent Traveler Programs
• Arranging Employee Travel
• Assigning a Travel Arranger
• Guest or Non-Employee Travel
• Booking Travel for Myself
• Emailing an Itinerary

Benefits of iTravel and Collegiate Travel Planners

System Contracted Travel Agency:

• Provides one-stop travel shopping and easy access to system travel policies including allowable lodging maximums.
• National/Enterprise Car Rental
• Club Quarters Hotels (University membership)
• Provides agent assistance with "waivers and favors" to include clearing of special seats, often at no cost, voiding non-refundable tickets within 24 hours of issuance, and frequent flier upgrades.
• Provides access to over 80,000 discounted hotel rooms negotiated by CTP. Many include either Wi-Fi or breakfast.
• Maintains profiles for individual travelers listing the traveler's preferences for seats, hotel and car rental, and frequent travel program numbers.
• Continually monitors traveler itineraries for rate reductions on purchased airfare and reserved hotel rooms. Will reissue an airline ticket with department approval and store the airline credit voucher in the employee's profile for future use. Will rebook hotel room reservation at lower rate.
• Tracks unused airline tickets, automatically updates traveler profiles with the unused ticket information and alerts travelers of the unused ticket(s) when making future airline reservations.
• Takes every reasonable step to transfer unused non-refundable tickets issued to non-system employees into airline vouchers for the system.
• Informs travelers of visa, passport and health requirements for international travel and provides application forms or assistance as needed. In emergency situations, assistance will also be provided to obtain a new or renewal passport.
• Provides travelers with a 24 hour, worldwide emergency reservation system that assists with protection against airline cancellations, hotel overbooking, and in emergency situations such as illness, security threats, thefts, etc.

Cancelling Trips / Redeeming Unused Airline Tickets

When an employee purchases an airline ticket for business travel from Collegiate Travel Planners and the trip has to be cancelled, please cancel the reservation prior to departure. If the reservation is cancelled prior to departure and the purchased airline ticket is non-refundable, it will be held in the employee's profile and can be applied as a credit for future business travel. If the airline ticket is refundable, a credit will be applied to the card used to purchase the ticket.

Last Updated: February 9, 2023

This website has been replaced. Please go to BusFin.uillinois.edu.

NIU Alumni Travel is open to anyone interested in educational travel, including alumni, parents, families, and friends of the university.

Ready to explore the world? We are! Come see where we’re headed and join the pack.

It is exciting to think of new travel adventures and destinations we have dreamed about. Whether it is to explore, to learn, to socialize, or merely to see and hear the sights and sounds of a new destination, we have something for everyone.

Our main concern is for the well-being of our alumni and friends. Please note that travel is inherently risky, and please take caution to ensure that you are prepared, insured, and informed about your plans and about your desired destination. Not every tour is for everyone, and things like mobility, length of time, and location should all be a part of your consideration.

We thank you for your continued support of NIU and the Alumni Association Travel Program LLC, and we look forward to sharing new travel adventures. Please bookmark this page for future travel announcements.

Click here to read NIU Alumni Association Travel Program, LLC FAQs.

Program tour conditions and disclaimers:.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is very important and can be purchased through USI Travel Insurance Services. This insurance is designed to cover you and your tour investment from tour cancellation/interruption penalties and to provide medical expense, medical evacuation, baggage and personal effects loss, and accidental death coverage, as well as emergency assistance. There is an advantage to early enrollment in this travel insurance program. Purchasing coverage within 21 days (Plus and Elite Options) of your initial tour deposit can make you eligible for (1) Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver, and (2) Optional Cancel for Any Reason Coverage (Plus and Elite Options). If you wish to take advantage of these special options, you must enroll within 21 days of the date your initial tour deposit is received. Contact Travel Insurance Services at 1-800-937-1387 or my.travelinsure.com/niu. Considering recent global events, including without limitation, the global pandemic, it is strongly recommended that all travelers purchase additional insurance to protect their travel purchase.  

No Liability: By participating in this Program, you understand and agree that the Alumni Association Travel Program LLC (“AATP”) and its affiliates, related entities, officers, directors, attorneys, trustees, beneficiaries, insurers, employees, managers, members, volunteers, students, agents, other representatives, predecessors, successors and assigns are not responsible for any liabilities, claims, causes of action, damages, fees, costs, and expenses of any kind relating to any tour cancellation, tour interruption and/or delay; baggage loss, theft, damage, or delay; accident and/or sickness medical expenses, accidental death; and worldwide emergency medical evacuation and assistance arising out of or in any way related to this Program.  

RESPONSIBILITY  

AATP does not conduct the tours and does not act as agent for any participants interested in tours. AATP acts solely as a facilitator with independent tour operators, with whom tour participants directly make arrangements for completing travel. As a courtesy only, AATP acts as a liaison with tour operators should you have any questions or concerns that may arise before, during or after your tour. AATP strongly encourages you to familiarize yourself thoroughly with all the tour operator’s terms and conditions, including without limitation, their cancellation and refund policies. AATP strongly encourages you to investigate all available insurance options from third parties. AATP and its affiliates, related entities, officers, directors, attorneys, trustees, beneficiaries, insurers, employees, managers, members, volunteers, students, agents, other representatives, predecessors, successors and assigns are not responsible for any changes to trips or travel arrangements, or for any monetary losses or additional expenses of any kind arising out of or related in any way to your travel.  

AATP does not own or operate any entity which provides goods or services for this program. AATP does not act as agent for the independent suppliers of travel conveyance, transport, accommodations, or any other travel related services. All such persons or entities are independent contractors. As a result, AATP is not liable for any negligent, intentional, or willful act by any such person or entity. In addition and without limitation, AATP is not responsible for any delays, delayed departure or arrival, missed carrier connections, loss, death, damage or injury to person or property, or any accident, mechanical defect, failure or negligence of any nature whatsoever arising out of or related in any way to any accommodations, transportation or other services, or for any substitution of hotels or of common carrier equipment, with or without notice, or for any additional expenses that may be incurred. AATP, in its sole and exclusive discretion reserves the right to withdraw its affiliation with any individual tour operator should conditions warrant.  

Tour Operator. The tour operator, supplier of services, or their respective affiliates, officers, directors, trustees, employees, agents or other representatives (collectively “Tour Operator”) shall not be responsible for or become liable for any delay incurred by any person in connection with any means of transportation, for any loss, damage or injury to person or property by reason of any event beyond their control or occurring without their fault or negligence.  

The Tour Operator reserves the right to:  

1. Substitute the airline to be used; the type of aircraft; and to alter the dates of the tour; the tour routing; or to cancel the trip if a minimum number of bookings is not reached for either the air or land portion of this itinerary.  

2. Substitute hotels for other hotels in available categories.  

3. Decline to accept or to retain at any time any person as a participant on any tour or to cancel any tour.  

No Refunds. No refund will be made for voluntary absence from the tour unless arrangements are made at the time of booking. The schedules contained herein are subject to change without notice. All rates are based on current Tariff and Exchange rates in effect at the time of the printing of this itinerary and are subject to adjustment without prior notification in the event of changes therein or in changes in the number of participants on which the rates are based.  

No Travel Carrier Liability. The travel carriers involved in this Program are not responsible for any act, omission or event during the time passengers are not on board their plane or other conveyance. The passage contract in use by any travel carrier, when issued, shall constitute the sole contract between the travel carrier and the purchaser of this Program tour.  

Upcoming Trips 

Classical Greece

Travel to Greece with your fellow Huskies and experience warm sunshine reflecting off the Parthenon, espresso on a patio on Santorini, cold retsina on a balcony as the sun sets on Mykonos and so much more!

Croatia and Montenegro Coastal Voyage

The Croatian coastline and its islands rank among the most intricately indented coastlines in the world. Of the 1,244 islands, islets, cliffs and reefs, only 50 are inhabited.

Taj Mahal and the Treasures of India

Discover India’s greatest treasures as you visit the timeless Taj Mahal, seek the graceful Bengal tiger and witness a holy rite beside the sacred Ganges.

Alumni Info

Learn more about the University of Chicago alumni community.

Explore the mysteries of iBots, Joan of Arc, gimmicks, ethics, and more.

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Learning is a lifelong endeavor. Continue your intellectual connection with the University of Chicago.

Start (or continue) your career exploration from the comfort of your device.

Your generosity fuels every aspect of education, research, and initiatives on campus and around the world.

Explore the world through guided tours with UChicago faculty and alumni.

Questions about UChicago Alumni Travel? See travel information , email [email protected] , or call 773.702.2150.

Current destinations

Treasures of Northern Europe, Medieval to Modern

Trip scholar: Steven Pincus

Dante’s Italy: Exploring Historic Cities and Landmark Sites

Trip scholar: Lawrence Rothfield

Toronto to Vancouver by Rail: A Nostalgic Journey

Trip scholar: Clara Blättler

Southwest National Parks

Trip scholar: Stephen Pruett-Jones

Scottish Isles and Norwegian Fjords

Trip scholar: Jill Mateo

Rhine and Moselle Rivers: Basel to Amsterdam

The Galápagos Islands: Eight Days of Wonder and Amazement

Classic Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Provence, Featuring Art, Cuisine, and Wine

Easy Company: England to the Eagle’s Nest

Croatia and Cruising the Dalmatian Coast

Panama and Colombia: Exploring the Caribbean Coast

From Oman to Dubai: The Arabian Gulf

Flavors of Sicily

Machu Picchu to the Galápagos

Antarctica Direct: Sail and Fly the Drake Passage

Travel with uchicago, alumni travel.

See more details about the travel opportunities above.

Graham School

Study in Oxford this June with the Graham School.

Institute for the Study of Ancient Cultures

Explore ancient civilizations with the ISAC.

Past trip photos

For a preview of your next adventure, browse photos from past UChicago Alumni Travel trips.

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Alumni Travel Programs

We will happily send you information including features, itineraries, and pricing. Questions or desire a reservation? We're just a phone call away!  Call (309) 298-1914, or email [email protected].

See the world with your WIU Alumni Association!

If you have traveled with us recently, please fill out our online evaluation form HERE .

We OFFER Travel Protection for all types of travel

Whether you decide to travel with WIU or even for trips you take on your own, the WIU Alumni Association offers protection for all types of trips.

For more than a decade, WIU has chosen USI Travel Insurance Services to provide travel protection plans for alumni and friends. Every year, the Travel Insurance Select plan provides coverage to thousands of alumni travelers just like you. Be sure you are insured for your next trip – whether participating in a WIU Travel Abroad Program or traveling on your own.

Plan benefits may include coverage of your pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs in case of Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, or Travel Delay; coverage for Accident & Sickness Medical Expense; Emergency Medical Evacuation; and much more. If you buy your plan early, you also have the option to add the Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR)* upgrade, which affords you more flexibility if you decide to cancel your trip . Click here for more information or to quote and enroll before you hit the road, sea or ocean . Or call 800-937-1387 for more information or to enroll by phone. (When calling, be sure to mention that you are with the WIU Alumni Association.)

*CFAR is offered at an additional premium. In order to be eliglible for CFAR, you must buy your plan within 21 days of the date in which your inititial trip deposit is received. Additional conditions apply. Not available to residents of NY. Read plan documents for terms, conditions and exclusions .

NOTE: The itinerary(ies) outlined below is preliminary and is subject to change due to operational conditions.

Upcoming Trips

• Grand Cities of Central Europe - May 28 – June 6
• Coastal Gems of the Emerald Isle - May 26 – June 7
• Icelandic Revelation - July 6 – 17
• Alaskan Heritage & Wildlife - July 28 – August 4
• Northern Delights - July 30 – August 10
• The Charm of the Amalfi Coast - September 18 – 26
• Basque Country ~ Spain & France - October 19 – 27
• Renaissance Triumphs - November 3 – 14
• Holiday Markets Cruise ~ The Festive Rhine River - December 3 – 11
• Greece: Athens & Crete - May 16 – 27
• Italy ~ Tuscany & Emilia-Romagna - June 10 – 19
• Spain ~ Andalucia in a Parador - August 28 – September 5
• France ~ Pleasures of Provence - September 23 – October 1

       **Please note that all trip dates are subject to change.

2024 WIU Alumni Travel Program

Grand Cities of Central Europe May 28– June 6, 2024 from $4,495 if booked by 8/29/23 + VAT + air

(For more information or to make a reservation for this Alumni Holidays trip, call 800-323-7373 or CLICK HERE .)

Coastal Gems of the Emerald Isle May 26 – June 7, 2024 from $4,995 if booked by 8/29/23 + VAT + air

Icelandic Revelation July 6 – 17, 2024 from $4,499

Embark in Reykjavik and set sail for Grundarfjordur. Enjoy the ambience of serene waterfalls and unique views. Take a boat trip around Isafjordur where you can fish along the bay. Surround yourself with Icelandic folk culture in Akureyri. Picturesque Seydisfjordur holds some of Iceland's most iconic scenery to experience and wildlife to spot. Stroll through the streets of Djupivogur where the culture is rich and the nature is breathtaking. Take a trip to the mysterious Faroe Islands dotted midway between Iceland and Norway to experience a unique blend of quirky local culture and modern day cafes. Before journey’s end, spend time in Heimaey and cruise around the island where you will find lava formations and can spot puffins in their natural habitat.

(For more information or to make a reservation for this Go Next trip, call 800-842-9023 or CLICK HERE .)

Alaskan Heritage & Wildlife July 28 – August 4, 2024 from $5,195 if booked by 9/27/23 + VAT + air

Northern Delights July 30 – August 10, 2024 from $4,899

Embark in Hamburg and set sail for Haugesund where you can tour a reconstructed Viking farm and learn how these fascinating people lived. Visit the graceful Art Nouveau district in Alesund, explore a Viking ship, or experience a rugged adventure in Nordfjordeid. In Stavanger, bask in an awe-inspiring landscape and cozy atmosphere. Sail in a Viking ship replica along the coastline of Kristiansund or dip a toe in where the swirling North and Baltic Seas converge in Skagen. Be inspired by the art and design of Copenhagen and taste some of its delectable cuisine. Before ending in Oslo, take in the rich history and vibrant culture of Gothenburg as you visit the wooden homes and cobblestone streets of its Haga neighborhood.

Charm of the Amalfi Coast September 18 – 26, 2024 from $3,995 if booked by 12/27/23 + VAT + air

Basque Country ~ Spain & France October 19 – 27, 2024 from $3,595 if booked by 11/29/23 + VAT + air

Renaissance Triumphs November 3 – 14, 2024 from $2,799

Escape to Naples to see Pompeii, a preserved ancient Roman city once buried under the ashes of nearby Mt. Vesuvius. Sip hand-crafted wine in Messina. Cruise the terracotta cliff-lined waters of the Amalfi Coast and visit Valletta to see the celebrated St. John’s Co-Cathedral. Take in Italian Renaissance masterpieces in Florence and Pisa. Experience the culture and history of Genoa as you meander the twisting caruggi (narrow streets) before relaxing amidst the stunning views and sophisticated architecture of Nice. Immerse yourself in the captivating landscapes of Provence as the aroma of lavender fields and breathtaking views of the coastlines and mountainous areas sweep you away. Before journey’s end in beautiful Barcelona, pop into Palma de Mallorca's plentiful art galleries and admire the fascinating exhibits on display.

Holiday Markets Cruise ~ The Festive Rhine River December 3 – 11, 2024 from $2,995 if booked by 4/9/24 + port + air

SAVE THE DATE for these 2025 trips!!

Greece: Athens & Crete May 16 – 27, 2025 from $5,295 if booked by 9/10/24 + VAT + air

Italy ~ Tuscany & Emilia-Romagna June 10 – 19, 2025 from $4,295 if booked by 8/13/24 + VAT + air

Spain ~ Andalucia in a Parador August 28 – September 5, 2025 from $3,095 if booked by 1/14/25 + port + air

France ~ Pleasures of Provence September 23 – October 1, 2025 from $4,495 if booked by 1/14/25 + VAT + air

Alumni Holidays

AHI Travel is a creative, family-owned travel company that has been providing the best in deluxe educational travel experiences since 1962. Recognized around the world the for their expertly planned and operated programs, they are the premier operator of travel for university alumni associations. They are proud that many of our travelers have chosen to travel with us on 15, 20 and even 30 trips because of their attention to detail, excellent service and innovative travel programs.

In addition to the featured Western Illinois University travel programs sponsored for alumni and friends, the Alumni Association also provides you the opportunity to travel independently on all AHI programs and dates .

AHI Health and Safety Protocols

AHI health and safety protocols

For nearly 40 years, Go Next has made the world more accessible to the sophisticated traveler. Offering unique and fascinating itineraries on land, at sea and by river, Go Next programs are designed to provide the maximum experience at an affordable price. With the ideal balance of exploration, education and relaxation, our trips provide the savings and conveniences of a group program, while presenting opportunities for independent exploration. Go Next is committed to providing quality travel programs and excellent customer service for professional associations and college alumni groups. Accompanied by an experienced and dedicated staff, Go Next travelers have journeyed the globe.

Insurance benefits in the plans are subject to exclusions and limitations, including an exclusion for pre-existing conditions.

The plan contains insurance benefits underwritten by the United States Fire Insurance Company as well as non-insurance Travel Assistance Services that are provided by On Call International. Coverages may vary and not all coverage is available in all jurisdictions. Individuals looking to obtain additional information regarding the features and pricing of each travel plan component, please contact USI Insurance Services, LLC d/b/a USI Affinity Travel Insurance Services with its principal place of business at 3805 West Chester Pike, Suite 200, Newtown Square, PA, 19073; 1-800-937-1387; [email protected] . CA license #OG11911. CA DOI toll free number: 800-927-4357.  MD Insurance Administration: 800-492-6116.

* The insurance benefits that are part of the plans are underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.  As a travel retailer, Western Illinois University Alumni Association and its employees may transact Travel Insurance on TIS’s behalf and under TIS’s direction, including offering/disseminating information on their behalf, including brochures, buyer guides, descriptions of coverage, and price, referring specific coverage/feature/benefit questions to TIS, disseminating/processing applications for coverage, coverage selection forms, or other similar forms, collecting premiums on TIS’s behalf, and receiving/recording information to share with TIS. Purchasing a travel plan is not required in order to purchase any other products or services offered by Western Illinois University Alumni Association.     

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Earth Day 2024: The current state of our environment

Sunflower fields in Champaign. Reginald Hardwick/IPM News

It's Earth Day.

To start our show off, we'll cover the current state of Illinois' environment, followed by the biggest environmental challenges we're facing worldwide. We'll also look back to the 70s and see how environmentalist movements have changed since then, and learn if nuclear energy is considered green energy.

To close off our show, we'll hear from our guests if doomers are right about Earth's future, or if you should remain optimistic.

Jennifer Walling

Executive Director, Illinois Environmental Council (IEC)

Chapter Director at Sierra Club Illinois

• International

April 27, 2024 - Campus protest updates

By Tori B. Powell, Aditi Sangal, Nouran Salahieh, Dalia Faheid, Lauren Said-Moorhouse , Laura Smith-Spark , Adrienne Vogt and Matt Meyer, CNN

Our live coverage of the protests has moved here .

USC professor to CNN: University officials have failed students and faculty

From CNN’s Amanda Musa

University of Southern California administrators failed students and faculty who are encouraged by the institution to speak their minds, said  Mike Ananny , PHD, an associate professor of communications and journalism at USC who recently criticized university leaders over their handling of campus demonstrations.

On Thursday, Ananny wrote an open   letter appearing in the student publication, the  Daily Trojan , stating he no longer trusts the school's provost, Andrew Guzman, and its president, Carol Folt, after witnessing how they handled what he called peaceful protests, especially on Wednesday.

Nearly 100 people  were arrested after the university ordered protestors at the campus' Alumni Park to disperse, CNN previously reported.

“Peaceful protestors were at the university expressing their speech rights and doing all the things that we ask our students to do,” he said. “We want them to be engaged and passionate citizens who are taking care of their world.” 

Ananny cited the university’s decision last week to cancel Asna Tabassum's valedictorian commencement speech due to safety concerns as the catalyst for the pro-Palestinian protests. This week, the university also canceled its main stage commencement ceremony set for next month – further dismantling trust between administrators and the university community, Ananny claims.

“The university needs to trust its students, trust its faculty to do the work that we know how to do,” he said. “We know how to have these conversations – let us have them.”

Ananny says he has not received a response from Folt to his open letter.

Here’s some of the latest from major US universities as protests continue

From CNN staff

Pro-Palestinian protests are ongoing at major universities across the US. Several schools have called on authorities to remove demonstrators and more arrests have been made Saturday.

A central demand of protesters is for universities divest from Israel-linked companies that they say are profiting from the war in Gaza.

Here's what you should know:

More arrests and warnings:

• Police detained about 100 people as officials cleared "an unauthorized encampment" on Northeastern University 's campus in Boston on Saturday morning, according to a university spokesperson. Student organizers are disputing some of the school's claims about the encampment.
• Officers arrested at least 23 people on Saturday after a protest encampment formed at Indiana University Bloomington , according to the school's police department. Video from the scene showed officers in riot gear trying to separate demonstrators with their arms linked.
• At Arizona State University , police arrested 69 people for trespassing after an “unauthorized encampment” was set up, according to a release from the university.
• The University of Illinois warned of consequences , including arrests and interim suspensions, for those taking part in on-campus demonstrations that began Friday morning. 

Other schools saw relative calm today:

• The campus of Emory University in Atlanta was quieter Saturday, following the arrest of protesters and at least two Emory professors Thursday in clashes with police. The arrests are now the subject of a faculty movement pressuring the school's president to resign.
• Things were also " relatively calm " on Columbia University 's campus Saturday, especially compared to tense protests off campus earlier this week, according to CNN's Polo Sandoval. Negotiations are still ongoing between protest leaders and university administration, but organizers don't expect an update until Monday.

Northeastern protesters deny university's account of "professional organizers" at encampment

From CNN's Sharif Paget, Michelle Watson and Isabel Rosales

A Northeastern University student organization,  Huskies for a Free Palestine , says it was not infiltrated by outside organizers, as school officials had said after shutting down a protest encampment at the Boston campus.

About 100 people were detained at the encampment, though the school said those with a valid school ID were released and will face school disciplinary proceedings rather than legal action. The school said in a statement that the group had been "infiltrated by professional organizers with no affiliation to Northeastern."

"We were not 'infiltrated' in any way, shape or form by 'professional protestors', no one hired, it was comprised primarily of students," the student group said in a statement Saturday.

Claims about hate speech: The organization is also disputing the university's statement that the "use of virulent antisemitic slurs, including 'Kill the Jews,'" was among the reasons for shutting the protest down.

"The only people hurling antisemitic slurs last night were Zionist counter-protestors attempting to instigate our peaceful encampment. Despite this, the university exploited this moment to lie about our encampment and justify the brutal arrest of over 100 students,” Huskies for a Free Palestine said in its statement.

Videos shared with CNN show what appears to be at least two counter-protesters holding an Israeli flag attempting to provoke the crowd to chant, “Kill the Jews.”

After yelling the antisemitic remark, one of them is heard saying, "Anyone on board? Anyone on board?" Some protesters responded with boos.

Asked for any additional comment, the school's vice president of communications, Renata Nyul, said "the fact that the phrase ‘Kill the Jews’ was shouted on our campus is not in dispute," citing news reports and video from the scene.

"Any suggestion that repulsive antisemitic comments are sometimes acceptable depending on the context is reprehensible," Nyul said. "That language has no place on any university campus."

Faculty group criticizes response: In a statement Saturday, Northeastern University Faculty & Staff for Justice in Palestine also spoke out against the university's handling of the protest.

"We were shocked to learn that the Northeastern administration issued a statement claiming that the university's decision to arrest those in the encampment was triggered by an antisemitic statement allegedly made by protesters," the group said.

"Numerous videos that have been posted online, along with eye-witness accounts from a WGBH reporter and others, make it clear that the phrase in question -- 'Kill the Jews' -- was uttered by a pro-Israel counter-demonstrator who was seeking to provoke the students at the encampment."

23 people arrested at Indiana University Bloomington, police say

Officers arrested at least 23 people on Saturday after a protest encampment formed at Indiana University Bloomington, according to the school's police department.

Police said a group of protesters put up tents and canopies Friday night "with the stated intention to occupy the university space indefinitely," and that the unapproved "temporary or permanent structures" violated school policy.

Video from the school's student-run newspaper, the Indiana Daily Student , showed officers in riot gear carrying shields and batons as they attempted to clear out the encampment. Police can be seen shoving demonstrators as they try to break through interlocked arms, and at least four officers are seen dragging a person away from the camp.

In its statement, the Indiana University Police Department said it approached the demonstrators in the school's outdoor Dunn Meadow area around noon ET, along with Indiana State Police. Authorities say they gave demonstrators “six verbal warnings” to remove the encampment, before detaining those who did not remove their structures.

Police said the 23 people arrested face "charges ranging from criminal trespass to resisting law enforcement." Police said they had not confirmed how many of those arrested were directly affiliated with the university.

CNN has reached out to state police and the Monroe County Sheriff’s office.

In a  post  Saturday, the university said, “IU encourages and respects free speech, including the right to peacefully protest and demonstrate,” but said students, faculty, staff and visitors are expected to comply with school policy and state law.

CNN's Sharif Paget contributed reporting to this post.

This post has been updated with details from a video taken at the scene.

Police arrest 69 people from encampment at Arizona State University

From CNN’s Rebekah Riess

Early Saturday morning, Arizona State University Police arrested 69 people for trespassing after an “unauthorized encampment” was set up, according to a release from the university.

According to the school, a group of people, “most of whom were not ASU students, faculty or staff,” had created an encampment and their demonstration lasted until 11 p.m. local time on Friday, when the group was instructed “multiple times” to disperse. 

Those who refused to leave after multiple warnings, were arrested and charged with criminal trespass, the release said.

The university said while encampments are prohibited on ASU property, “lawful demonstrations” are allowed to take place on campus, except between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.

“While the university will continue to be an environment that embraces freedom of speech, ASU’s first priority is to create a safe and secure environment that supports teaching and learning,” the statement read.

Three people were also arrested on the ASU campus Friday in connection with the encampment, CNN previously reported.

All campus operations have "returned to normal," Northeastern University says

From CNN's Michelle Watson

Northeastern University campus operations are back to normal and the school's quad has been "fully secured" as of Saturday afternoon, the university said in a  post  on X and in an email to CNN.

Police detained about 100 people this morning as officials cleared "an unauthorized encampment" set up by pro-Palestinian demonstrators on Northeastern’s campus in Boston, CNN previously reported.

The school said in its update that the process was complete by 11:30 a.m. ET.

Emory University calm Saturday after violent arrests

From CNN's Rafael Romo

The campus of Emory University in Atlanta was calm Saturday, following the arrest of protesters and at least two Emory professors Thursday in clashes with police.

On Friday, tenured Emory faculty pushed for a "no confidence" vote of Emory President Gregory Fenves in the wake of the violent arrests.

One of the faculty members who had been arrested — Noelle McAfee, chair of Emory’s philosophy department — told CNN that university administrators made the problem worse on Thursday when they called in the police.

She said police told her to step back as she stood near students who were being arrested.

“Here I am — now, not just a professor but a human being — watching this child being pummeled. I said ‘No’ and I stood there. But I stood there in a way that was non-confrontational. I just stood there. And then I’m arrested.”

Fenves said in a letter Friday that ahead of the arrests there were “highly organized, outside protestors” who came to the campus in vans to "construct an encampment, and overtake the Quad."

But students and faculty who participated in the protests recalled events differently, saying the protesters were mostly students and people affiliated with the university.

One such student, Martin Berg, a third-year law student who had been arrested, put it this way: "What I saw was unprovoked and severe brutality exacted by police that Emory University had allowed to come on campus and assault their students. The message that the president of the University sent regarding outside agitators … was a lie."

"The majority of us (in jail) were associated with the university in one way or another," he added.

George Washington University pro-Palestinian protesters block street but remain peaceful

From CNN’s Avery Lotz and Gabe Cohen

Protesters at George Washington University in Washington, DC, are now blocking a street.

Around a dozen tents spilled from University Yard — the grassy area where the encampment was initially erected earlier this week — onto H Street NW, where a sign that reads "Liberated Zone Solidarity Camp" stretches between two trees.

The group of protesters has grown since Friday, according to CNN journalists who have been at the scene.

The protesters, who remain peaceful, were chanting, "Students you are not alone. This campus is a freedom zone."

One chalk-written message on H Street read: “A Free Palestine in our Lifetime."

The tents on H Street, a public area, puts them in a zone overseen by the DC Metropolitan Police.

DC Metropolitan Police remain in the area, and the U-Yard park is cordoned off by metal barricades and tape.

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• Update Alumni Profile

Club Resources & Information

Welcome dedicated illini club leaders.

Foremost, the University of Illinois Alumni Association wants to thank you for all that your club does for our beloved University.   Your generosity with your time, talent, and treasure helps to keep our devoted alumni meaningfully connected to the University of Illinois through events, initiatives, and scholarship fundraising.  The UIAA is dedicated to helping your club reach more alumni by providing additional resources that we hope your club utilizes to maximize your impact within your region, your affinity group, or your identity group.   

Within this website, you will find more information on these specific resources and how to leverage them for your alumni club.   Furthermore, the UIAA included some additional resources and information related to event strategies, board governance, and other best practices to ensure that the UIAA is meeting the needs and goals of your club.   

Once again, thank you for all that you do for the University of Illinois and our Alumni Association.  We look forward to working with you to keep Illini everywhere connected to each other and our University.

Sincerely, Tyler Gagai Director, Alumni Clubs

Latest News & Announcements

Greetings Club Leaders,

I-L-L! We are looking forward to seeing you on April 26 at 11:00 AM central time for our monthly Zoom meeting. If you need to access our Zoom meeting on Friday, April 26, you can join by clicking this link.

Thank you for your continued engagement and fundraising efforts on behalf of our beloved University and the Alumni Association.

Dear Illinois family,

We are excited to share some big news as we celebrate 150 years of building relationships for life. Please join us in warmly welcoming David Bambrey as the new President of the University of Illinois Alumni Association (UIAA)!

Why We’re Excited Norma Lauder, our board chair, sums it up well: “The appointment of David Bambrey heralds a new chapter in our illustrious history. With his proven leadership and deep-rooted connection to our community, we are confident he will propel our Alumni Association into an era marked by innovation, promise, and achievement.”

About David Bambrey David comes to this role with an impressive background. After earning his Bachelor’s degree from Washington & Jefferson College, he began his professional journey at the University of Pittsburgh’s Institute for Entrepreneurial Excellence. He has also made significant contributions during his time at the Ohio University Alumni Association and, more recently, as vice president of alumni and student engagement here at the UIAA and also as the interim president for the last four months.

Honoring a Legacy As we welcome David, we also pause to honor the legacy of the late Jennifer Dillavou, our former president and the first woman to lead the UIAA.

Chancellor Robert Jones adds, “The University of Illinois Alumni Association is more than a network, it’s a family. Under David’s leadership, we anticipate a renewed energy in our alumni engagement efforts, all while honoring the remarkable legacy left by our former president. This is a time of reflection, gratitude, and anticipation as we embrace what’s next for our Alumni Association.”

David’s Vision David himself is enthusiastic about what lies ahead: “As we celebrate 150 years of building relationships for life, I am both humbled and excited to lead our Association into the next phase of our development. I am committed to strengthening the bonds that make our alumni community so special. Together, we’ll continue to shape a future filled with connection, pride, and success.”

Meet David at Our Community Welcome Event We’d love for you to meet David in person! Join us at the Alice Campbell Alumni Center on Tuesday, September 19, from 4:30 pm to 6:00 pm. It’s a great opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations, hear more about our vision, and, of course, enjoy some light refreshments.

Thank you for being a part of this vibrant Illini community. We can’t wait to start this new chapter with you!

In Orange and Blue, Your UIAA Team

Foremost, to our clubs who opted-in to participate into the UIAA Clubs Program (often referred to as the tier system), the UIAA cannot thank you enough for your partnership. The first year of this program was a massive success, with well over 200 club-hosted events and over 8,000 event attendees being reported to the UIAA. As such, congratulations on an outstanding job in FY23! Beginning on July 1, 2023, we will raise the maximum reimbursement amount per event for our clubs who achieved Main Quad or Illini Union tier status. On that date, the maximum reimbursement amounts per event will be increased to the following amounts: – Main Quad clubs – Your maximum reimbursement amount per event will increase from $500 per event to $750 per event. Your pool of reimbursable funds for the year will remain at a maximum of $1250. – Illini Union clubs – Your maximum reimbursement amount per event will increase from $250 per event to $350 per event. Your pool of reimbursable funds for the year will remain at a maximum of $500. Morrow Plots level clubs reimbursable financial support will remain at $250 for the fiscal year with a maximum of $250 per event. This change will be discussed during the June Club Leaders Zoom meeting, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions about these changes during that meeting. Once again, congratulations on a job well-done during this first year of our new clubs program. The UIAA values your continued partnership.

The University of Illinois Alumni Association’s new clubs program (aka tier system) will launch on July 1, 2022.  Beginning on that date, domestic regional, affinity, and identity clubs may begin to participate in the tier system by following the established guidelines and leveraging the offered resources.  For those clubs who have already notified the UIAA of their intention to participate in this new clubs program, we thank you for being tremendous partners to our organization and we look forward to working with your club to expand your audience. 

For clubs who plan to participate, please notify Tyler Gagai at [email protected] of your club’s intention to participate.   Conversely, if your club has decided to not participate in this program, please notify Tyler of your club’s intention to opt-out.

If your club is located outside of the United States, please note that the UIAA is unable to extend tier system resources to your club at this time.  However, the UIAA does encourage international alumni clubs to utilize our events information resource as a means of gathering ideas for events that will reach different constituencies.

Thank you for everything that your club does for our beloved University. We look forward to working with you to connect Illini alumni from all walks of life.

Foremost, welcome to the Illini Club Leaders Resource Website!  Moving forward, this website will be updated regularly with announcements from the UIAA that may impact your club in addition to important information and news from the University.  We highly recommend that you bookmark this site as it will not be accessible from the main UIAA website. Any important updates will be highlighted as announcements (as you are reading now).   Please note announcements will include but not limited to the following:

• Updates and changes to tier system resources and guidelines
• University of Illinois athletic schedules as they become available (this includes all DIA sports)
• Special announcements from the UIAA
• Monthly UIAA Club Leaders Zoom Meeting information
• Information related to major on-campus events, such as Homecoming

It is our intention that this website serves as a means of keeping all our clubs updated with timely and relevant information and helps strengthen your connection to the UIAA and the University of Illinois. We hope that your club utilizes this website on a regular basis.

Clubs Program (Tier System) Guidelines

The University of Illinois Alumni Association (UIAA) is proud to assist its alumni clubs through resources, guidelines, and expectations that we refer to as a “tier system” that is designed to maximize the engagement opportunities for the alumni in their region or their target alumni demographic.  Under this tier structured, alumni clubs are allocated resources and provided guidelines based on their club’s own goals, volunteer bandwidth, and alumni population.

Events are the primary engagement opportunity for alumni clubs. Learn how to maximize the potential for robust attendance and smooth operations.

Learn more about how to start an Illini Alumni Club, disband/suspend operations of an alumni club, recruit new volunteers, and more.

The University of Illinois Alumni Association (UIAA) is here to support your alumni group’s goals and initiatives in a variety of ways.

QUICK LINKS

Illinois Physics hosts 2024 ISAAPT Spring Meeting

4/26/2024 8:00:00 AM

On April 19-20, 2024 Illinois Physics hosted more than 45 teachers across Illinois for the 2024 Spring AAPT Meeting, organized by Morten Lundsgaard, Coordinator of Physics Teacher Development.  The meeting was kickstarted by an IOLab workshop, followed by several speakers from Southern Illinois University, Illinois State University, Romeoville High School, Parkland College, and University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.  The full program can be found at https://sites.google.com/view/illinois-section-aapt/meeting-archive/spring-2024 .

2024 Spring AAPT Meeting

Ipass & is-aapt.

Some teachers who are part of the IPaSS initiative facilitated several of the workshops for other teachers attending the IS-AAPT meeting, including several related to IOLabs and how to use them in the classroom.

"It was a wonderful opportunity to get the best and brightest physics teachers from across the state together to discuss new and innovative ways to teach physics to future generations," said Lundsgaard.

Share this story

This story was published April 26, 2024.

• International

Pro-Palestinian protests continue at colleges across the US

By Dalia Faheid, Nouran Salahieh, Maureen Chowdhury and Antoinette Radford, CNN

More than 80 arrested in Washington University demonstration, university says

From CNN’s Paradise Afshar

More than 80 people were arrested at Washington University in St. Louis on Saturday amid ongoing Pro-Palestinian demonstrations, the university  said in a statement.

A group of demonstrators, which included students, employees and individuals not associated with the university, marched at multiple locations on campus where they “pitched tents, and indicated that they did not intend to leave,” the university said.

“It quickly became clear through the words and actions of this group that they did not have good intentions on our campus and that this demonstration had the potential to get out of control and become dangerous,” the university said.

“When the group began to set up a camp in violation of university policy, we made the decision to tell everyone present that they needed to leave,” the statement said. Dozens were arrested after they "refused to leave after being asked multiple times."

“All will face charges of trespassing and some may also be charged with resisting arrest and assault, including for injuries to police officers,” the university said. “We are firmly committed to free expression and allow ample opportunity for voices to be heard on our campus. However, we expect everyone to respect our policies and we will take swift action to enforce them to their fullest extent.”

Presidential candidate Jill Stein was among those arrested Saturday at the university, her campaign's communications director previously said, adding that “we are not aware of any charges at this time.”

University of Southern California temporarily closes campus to everyone except residents

The University of Southern California has closed its University Park campus temporarily, the school announced on Saturday night.

“Due to a disturbance, the University Park Campus is temporarily closed except for residents,” the university posted on X.

The university has been the backdrop to ongoing pro-Palestinian protests,  CNN has previously reported .

Some context: Nearly 100 people  were arrested after the university ordered protestors at the campus' Alumni Park to disperse Wednesday. Protesters are demanding “full amnesty” for those brought into custody and “no policing on campus.” This week, the university canceled its main stage commencement ceremony set for next month, after sparking criticism by canceling Asna Tabassum's valedictorian commencement speech.

Presidential candidate Jill Stein arrested at pro-Palestinian protest at Washington University

From CNN’s Alexandra Ross

Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein was arrested Saturday at a pro-Palestinian protest at Washington University in St. Louis, but “we are not aware of any charges at this time,” her campaign spokesperson said.

Stein was at the protest to support students who had set up an encampment and declared they would not leave until Washington University divested from Boeing and boycotted Israeli academic institutions, among other demands . In a video recorded prior to her arrest and posted to X , the Green Party candidate said she stood in support of the students and their constitutional free speech rights.

“We’re going to stand here in line with the students who are standing up for democracy, standing up for human rights, standing up to end genocide,” Stein said.

David Schwab, communications director for Jill Stein for President, said Stein had attempted to de-escalate the situation between protestors and police Saturday afternoon, but that the police “were not responsive” and began arrests shortly afterward.

“As Dr. Stein said, it's shameful that university administrations are condoning the use of force against their own students who are simply calling for peace, human rights, and an end to a genocide that the American people abhor,” Schwab said.

Stein’s campaign manager and deputy campaign manager were also arrested. 

USC professor to CNN: University officials have failed students and faculty

From CNN’s Amanda Musa

University of Southern California administrators failed students and faculty who are encouraged by the institution to speak their minds, said  Mike Ananny , PHD, an associate professor of communications and journalism at USC who recently criticized university leaders over their handling of campus demonstrations.

On Thursday, Ananny wrote an open   letter appearing in the student publication, the  Daily Trojan , stating he no longer trusts the school's provost, Andrew Guzman, and its president, Carol Folt, after witnessing how they handled what he called peaceful protests, especially on Wednesday.

Nearly 100 people  were arrested after the university ordered protestors at the campus' Alumni Park to disperse, CNN previously reported.

“Peaceful protestors were at the university expressing their speech rights and doing all the things that we ask our students to do,” he said. “We want them to be engaged and passionate citizens who are taking care of their world.” 

Ananny cited the university’s decision last week to cancel Asna Tabassum's valedictorian commencement speech due to safety concerns as the catalyst for the pro-Palestinian protests. This week, the university also canceled its main stage commencement ceremony set for next month – further dismantling trust between administrators and the university community, Ananny claims.

“The university needs to trust its students, trust its faculty to do the work that we know how to do,” he said. “We know how to have these conversations – let us have them.”

Ananny says he has not received a response from Folt to his open letter.

Here’s some of the latest from major US universities as protests continue

From CNN staff

Pro-Palestinian protests are ongoing at major universities across the US. Several schools have called on authorities to remove demonstrators and more arrests have been made Saturday.

A central demand of protesters is for universities divest from Israel-linked companies that they say are profiting from the war in Gaza.

Here's what you should know:

More arrests and warnings:

• Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein was arrested Saturday at a pro-Palestinian protest at Washington University , according to her campaign spokesperson. More than 80 people were arrested at the campus Saturday, the university said.
• Police detained about 100 people as officials cleared "an unauthorized encampment" on Northeastern University 's campus in Boston on Saturday morning, according to a university spokesperson. Student organizers are disputing some of the school's claims about the encampment.
• Officers arrested at least 23 people on Saturday after a protest encampment formed at Indiana University Bloomington , according to the school's police department. Video from the scene showed officers in riot gear trying to separate demonstrators with their arms linked.
• At Arizona State University , police arrested 72 people on Friday in connection to an encampment on campus, university officials said.
• The University of Illinois warned of consequences , including arrests and interim suspensions, for those taking part in on-campus demonstrations that began Friday morning. 
• The University of Southern California saw a large police presence Saturday night as the University Park campus was temporarily closed due to a "disturbance."

Other schools saw relative calm Saturday:

• The campus of Emory University in Atlanta was quieter Saturday, following the arrest of protesters and at least two Emory professors Thursday in clashes with police. The arrests are now the subject of a faculty movement pressuring the school's president to resign.
• Things were also " relatively calm " on Columbia University 's campus Saturday, especially compared to tense protests off campus earlier this week, according to CNN's Polo Sandoval. Negotiations are still ongoing between protest leaders and university administration, but organizers don't expect an update until Monday.

Northeastern protesters deny university's account of "professional organizers" at encampment

From CNN's Sharif Paget, Michelle Watson and Isabel Rosales

A Northeastern University student organization,  Huskies for a Free Palestine , says it was not infiltrated by outside organizers, as school officials had said after shutting down a protest encampment at the Boston campus.

About 100 people were detained at the encampment, though the school said those with a valid school ID were released and will face school disciplinary proceedings rather than legal action. The school said in a statement that the group had been "infiltrated by professional organizers with no affiliation to Northeastern."

"We were not 'infiltrated' in any way, shape or form by 'professional protestors', no one hired, it was comprised primarily of students," the student group said in a statement Saturday.

Claims about hate speech: The organization is also disputing the university's statement that the "use of virulent antisemitic slurs, including 'Kill the Jews,'" was among the reasons for shutting the protest down.

"The only people hurling antisemitic slurs last night were Zionist counter-protestors attempting to instigate our peaceful encampment. Despite this, the university exploited this moment to lie about our encampment and justify the brutal arrest of over 100 students,” Huskies for a Free Palestine said in its statement.

Videos shared with CNN show what appears to be at least two counter-protesters holding an Israeli flag attempting to provoke the crowd to chant, “Kill the Jews.”

After yelling the antisemitic remark, one of them is heard saying, "Anyone on board? Anyone on board?" Some protesters responded with boos.

Asked for any additional comment, the school's vice president of communications, Renata Nyul, said "the fact that the phrase ‘Kill the Jews’ was shouted on our campus is not in dispute," citing news reports and video from the scene.

"Any suggestion that repulsive antisemitic comments are sometimes acceptable depending on the context is reprehensible," Nyul said. "That language has no place on any university campus."

Faculty group criticizes response: In a statement Saturday, Northeastern University Faculty & Staff for Justice in Palestine also spoke out against the university's handling of the protest.

"We were shocked to learn that the Northeastern administration issued a statement claiming that the university's decision to arrest those in the encampment was triggered by an antisemitic statement allegedly made by protesters," the group said.

"Numerous videos that have been posted online, along with eye-witness accounts from a WGBH reporter and others, make it clear that the phrase in question -- 'Kill the Jews' -- was uttered by a pro-Israel counter-demonstrator who was seeking to provoke the students at the encampment."

Student protesters have a history of pushing for Columbia University to divest in different movements

From CNN's Clare Duffy and Ramishah Maruf

One of the core demands over the past week by the pro-Palestinian  student groups  at Columbia University has been for the school to withdraw investment funds from what they describe as companies profiting from Israel’s military action in Gaza.

Columbia’s endowment is worth $13.6 billion and is managed by a university-owned investment firm.

The request from Columbia University Apartheid Divest — a coalition of student groups behind the movement — includes, among other steps,  divesting endowment funds  from several weapons manufacturers and tech companies that do business with Israel’s government. The group has described those companies as profiting “from Israeli apartheid, genocide, and military occupation of Palestine.” Israel  denies accusations of genocide .

This is not the first time such demands have been made. Columbia has a history of student activism, from the now-famous 1968 student occupation of multiple campus buildings to raise awareness of the Vietnam War, to hunger strikes over issues such as the  university’s expansion  in Upper Manhattan.

Keep reading about the demands for divestment and what the university has divested from in the past.

23 people arrested at Indiana University Bloomington, police say

Officers arrested at least 23 people on Saturday after a protest encampment formed at Indiana University Bloomington, according to the school's police department.

Police said a group of protesters put up tents and canopies Friday night "with the stated intention to occupy the university space indefinitely," and that the unapproved "temporary or permanent structures" violated school policy.

Video from the school's student-run newspaper, the Indiana Daily Student , showed officers in riot gear carrying shields and batons as they attempted to clear out the encampment. Police can be seen shoving demonstrators as they try to break through interlocked arms, and at least four officers are seen dragging a person away from the camp.

In its statement, the Indiana University Police Department said it approached the demonstrators in the school's outdoor Dunn Meadow area around noon ET, along with Indiana State Police. Authorities say they gave demonstrators “six verbal warnings” to remove the encampment, before detaining those who did not remove their structures.

Police said the 23 people arrested face "charges ranging from criminal trespass to resisting law enforcement." Police said they had not confirmed how many of those arrested were directly affiliated with the university.

CNN has reached out to state police and the Monroe County Sheriff’s office.

In a  post  Saturday, the university said, “IU encourages and respects free speech, including the right to peacefully protest and demonstrate,” but said students, faculty, staff and visitors are expected to comply with school policy and state law.

CNN's Sharif Paget contributed reporting to this post.

This post has been updated with details from a video taken at the scene.

Police arrest 69 people from encampment at Arizona State University

From CNN’s Rebekah Riess

Early Saturday morning, Arizona State University Police arrested 69 people for trespassing after an “unauthorized encampment” was set up, according to a release from the university.

According to the school, a group of people, “most of whom were not ASU students, faculty or staff,” had created an encampment and their demonstration lasted until 11 p.m. local time on Friday, when the group was instructed “multiple times” to disperse. 

Those who refused to leave after multiple warnings, were arrested and charged with criminal trespass, the release said.

The university said while encampments are prohibited on ASU property, “lawful demonstrations” are allowed to take place on campus, except between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.

“While the university will continue to be an environment that embraces freedom of speech, ASU’s first priority is to create a safe and secure environment that supports teaching and learning,” the statement read.

Three people were also arrested on the ASU campus Friday in connection with the encampment, CNN previously reported.

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