CHAMPAIGN, Ill. – Mary Henson, wife of legendary Illinois basketball head coach Lou Henson, has been selected as the inaugural recipient of the Spirit of the Illini Award, which has been created by the University of Illinois Division of Intercollegiate Athletics to honor an individual who has exemplified character, has made significant contributions to the Fighting Illini FamILLy and has helped unify the community with excellence and honor.Â
Henson will be honored throughout the weekend, culminating with her presentation to the Illini faithful at halftime of the Homecoming football game vs. Wisconsin on Oct. 21, when she will join the Marching Illini in its performance of the alma mater.
"As part of our Homecoming festivities, we are excited to announce the creation of the Spirit of the Illini Award, and we could not think of a more deserving inaugural honoree than Mary Henson," Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman said. "Mary's longstanding relationship with Fighting Illini fans and the University of Illinois community makes this recognition especially gratifying. As part of our family for nearly 50 years, Mary's positive support and love for the Fighting Illini sets an example for all to follow. We are thrilled to recognize her with this newly created honor."
A native of Lanark, Illinois, in the northwest part of the state, Mary still resides in the same home she and Lou purchased upon their move to Champaign in 1975. She continues to be very active in the community and spends as much time as possible with her daughters and grandchildren. Mary served as the grand marshal of the University of Illinois Homecoming Parade in 2021 after being selected, along with Lou, as honorary alumni by the UI Alumni Association in 2020. She remains involved with many local organizations helping a wide range of community initiatives.
Henson was an obvious first selection for this newly created award. She has been a beloved figure in the Champaign-Urbana community since her arrival with late husband, Lou, in 1975. To a person, Henson is regarded as one of the most nurturing, spirited Illini figures in program history. For former student-athletes, she was their mother, for community members, she is a visible supporter, and for her family, she has been their anchor.
The selection of this award is a partnership between the DIA, University of Illinois Alumni Association and the Marching Illini and will be honored annually at Homecoming and other selected milestone games.
