Alumni Association gifts 2025 grads free VIP access to GovState's 56th birthday celebration

The Alumni Association at Governors State University (GovState) is excited to celebrate the 56th anniversary of the University with a birthday party on Wednesday, July 16, inviting new graduates to join in style. As part of the celebration, the Alumni Association is offering new graduates complimentary access to the VIP tent, providing them with an opportunity to network, reminisce, and connect with fellow alumni, faculty, staff, students, and community members.

The event will kick off with fun games hosted by the Park Forest crew. Following the games, guests will enjoy live performances starting with the opening act, Fire Flower, and concluding with the headliner, Maggie Speaks. The VIP tent will be a special space to celebrate new graduates, offering a chance to enjoy the festivities in a relaxed atmosphere. For the little ones, the thrilling frog hopper ride is a free adventure! Indulge in various delightful food and beverage options from fantastic vendors and explore unique items from small business vendors. This celebration promises an unforgettable evening filled with fantastic music, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to engage with the vibrant GovState community. 

Kimberly Gonzalez, Assistant Director of Alumni Relations, said she is excited to celebrate new graduates, future alumni.

“Each year, our birthday party brings together the very best of the Governors State University community—our proud alumni, new graduates, current students, faculty, staff, and friends from across the region. It's a joyful tradition where we celebrate not only the founding of our university, but also the incredible achievements of our 2025 graduates and we look forward to welcoming them as new members of our Alumni Association.”

This event is a celebration of GovState’s rich history and a welcoming gesture to all new graduates, highlighting the strong alumni network that continues to grow and thrive. 

New graduates should contact the Alumni Relations team to receive a free access code.

GovState’s 56th birthday party will take place on Wednesday, July 16, 2025, from 6 to 9 p.m. (CDT) at Downtown Park Forest, Village Green (Cunningham Drive & Main Street, Park Forest, Illinois, 60466) with the VIP Tent opening at 5 p.m. 

For more information or to RSVP, please contact the Alumni Association at GovState at 708.534.7892 | AlumniRelations2@govst.edu

The Alumni Association looks forward to celebrating 56 years of GovState excellence with the University community!

Click here to register for the event. 

Click here to register for the VIP tent.
Includes dinner, drink tickets, & prizes.