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The Quad: Where Illini Come Together
A people-focused news magazine show that highlights the voices, experiences, and stories of the Illini community. From everyday moments to inspiring journeys, The Quad brings campus to life through human interest features that celebrate what it means to be part of Illinois.
The Quad | Season 2 | Episode 4
Today we’re kicking brass, tasting bold flavors from Siam, and wrapping it up with a lunch skate at the Ice Arena. All that and more right here on the Quad.
Quad | Season 2 | Episode 3
Today on the Quad, we sit down with a Pilates instructor who says building strength and balance now can last a lifetime. Plus, we check out the fun and energy of Jip Hop Karaoke, and we celebrate the seniors of the Illini Ice Girls and the women’s wrestling RSO as they reflect on their journeys and look ahead to what’s next.
Quad | Season 2 | Episode 2
In Episode 2 of Quad, we dive deeper into campus life at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
This week, we explore the importance of “third places” — the spaces beyond classrooms and dorms where students connect, unwind, and build community. We also spotlight Raíces y Alas: Illinois Pageant, celebrating culture, identity, and empowerment on campus. Plus, we take a look at Freshman 101 and how new students are navigating their first year at Illinois.
From community spaces to cultural pride and first-year experiences, Episode 2 captures what makes campus life more than just academics.
The Quad | Season 2 | Episode 1
The Quad – We’re Back. Quad Squad.
Oh, we’re so back.
You thought you could get rid of us? No chance. We’ve been out here on the Quad — in the cold, in the wind, basically living in an igloo for the past month — waiting for this moment. And trust us… it was worth it.
The Quad Squad is back and better than ever with incredible stories, unforgettable guests, and the energy you’ve been missing.
This episode, we’re featuring:
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A conversation with The Other Guys, one of the oldest a cappella groups on campus from the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign — and yes, they’re very cool.
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The team behind UI-CON, the campus anime convention, sharing what goes into organizing an event of that scale, plus insight into the cosplay community and the passion that fuels it.
From music to anime to campus culture, we’re diving into it all. It was big. It was exciting. And you’ll definitely want to see what went down.
It’s all happening right here on the Quad.
We’re back. We’re so back.
The Quad | Season 1 | Episode 9
Mid-Season Fall Finale
Today we’re talking with students who have built their own businesses here at the University of Illinois as part of our entrepreneurship spotlight.
Then, Aaron takes a look back at our first season. All this on the Mid-Season Fall Finale of The Quad.
The Quad | Season 1 | Episode 8
From Budget to Bougie: The Champaign Food Scene
In this flavorful episode of The Quad, we dive into the vibrant food scene that fuels student life in Champaign-Urbana! From affordable eats perfect for college budgets to elite culinary experiences that elevate campus dining, this episode highlights how students are redefining what it means to eat well at the University of Illinois.
Join us as we explore student-run food programs, local hidden gems, and innovative campus initiatives that make great food accessible to everyone. Hear from passionate student chefs, campus entrepreneurs, and local restaurant owners who share how community, creativity, and culture come together—one meal at a time.
The Quad | Season 1 | Episode 7
Creatures Great and Small: Life with Our Furry (and Buzzing) Friends
This week on The Quad, we’re diving into the wonderful world of critters that share our spaces — and our hearts.
From a cozy café that caters to cats , to the buzzing world of honeybees and what we can learn from their purpose and teamwork this episode celebrates the many ways animals connect us to nature and to each other.
We’ll also meet some amazing service dogs and explore the incredible support and companionship they provide every day.
It’s a heartwarming, eye-opening look at the creatures that make life on and off campus a little brighter.
The Quad | Season 1 | Episode 6
🍁 Autumn at Illinois: Pumpkins, Ghosts, and Campus Legends
Episode 6 of The Quad dives into fall at the
University of Illinois!
From haunted legends and eerie woods to pumpkins and cornfields, we’re exploring everything that makes autumn in Champaign-Urbana one of a kind.
🎃 Ghost stories, cozy vibes, and a true Illini fall — only on The Quad!
The Quad |Season 1 |Episode 5
Lights, Camera, Action — The Quad Takes the Stage
Welcome to the fifth installment of The Quad! 🎭This week, we’re diving into the world of performing arts — from building major set designs for national productions to creating an independent short film. Plus, we’ll wrap up the week with some dancing and rapping you won’t want to miss.And before you go… we’ll test your campus knowledge with “Do You Know?”All that and more — today on The Quad!
The Quad |Season 1 |Episode 4
Home, Heritage, and the Illini Spirit
For more than 20 years, the Native American House has been a welcoming space celebrating Indigenous culture and connection. From workshops and events to campus-wide resources, it’s here for every Illini — no matter where you come from.
If you’re an Indigenous student at the University of Illinois, you don’t have to look far — just take a short walk off the Quad to West Nevada Street, where you’ll find the Native American House.
The Quad | Season 1 | Episode 3
Episode 3 – The Quad: Mental Health & Well-Being
In this episode of The Quad, we dive into important conversations about mental health and well-being for students on campus. From tips on managing stress and balancing academics to resources for support, we explore ways to prioritize your mental health while navigating college life. Join us for insights, stories, and practical advice to help you thrive on and off campus.
Original Airdate: September 29, 2025
In this week’s episode of The Quad, the spotlight turns to the sounds that shape Champaign-Urbana. From the quiet strum of a guitar on the campus lawn to the full-bodied echoes of local ensembles, music weaves its way into the heart of the community—and into this story.
With hosts and reporters Mary Piacente and Aaron Anastos, you’re invited to listen closely, to hear the rhythm of a town where every corner holds a melody. Joined by Jakia Hines, Ella Peterson, and Alyssa Thomas, the team explores how music connects people, tells stories, and brings vibrancy to daily life.
Produced by Mallory Miller, edited by Adrien Reetz, with production by Ava Fiermuga and Tristen Starzec, this episode captures the harmony of sound and place—an invitation to sit back, reflect, and enjoy The Music of the Quad.
The Soundtrack of the Quad
The Quad | Season 1, Episode 2
Welcome to your Week. Series Premiere of the Quad
The Quad
Season 1, Episode 1
Original Airdate: September 22, 2025
About the Show:
The Quad is a new UI7 Newsroom program that brings long-form, human interest storytelling to the University of Illinois community. Each episode highlights the voices, experiences, and stories that shape life on campus, told with depth and perspective.
Episode Credits:
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Producer: Mallory Miller
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Hosts: Mary Piacente, Aaron Anastos
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Reporters: Jakia Hines, Ava Fiermuga, Ella Peterson
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Editor: Adrien Reetz
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Advisor: Kenneth R. Erdey
© 2025 College of Media, UI7 Newsroom, University of Illinois
A show about the people and stories that make the University of Illinois campus come alive—told by the Illini living it.
We’re looking for stories that matter—yours.
Email us at ui7-news@illinois.edu with the subject line The Quad