Illinois proudly sent five student-athletes to the fourth annual Big Life Series: Selma to Montgomery trip, an immersive program designed to offer a transformative learning experience beyond the classroom. Through this initiative, student-athletes explored the deep-rooted history of the Civil Rights Movement, reinforcing Illinois' commitment to developing multifaceted leaders.
From July 18-20, the group explored the history of the Civil Rights Movement in the three cities of Selma, Montgomery, and Tuskegee, Alabama.
 Illinois student-athletes in attendance included:Â
Accompanied by the group was staff member Shanika Mungin, Assistant Director of Athletics, Student-Athlete EngagementÂ
"As a Black American man, I look forward to learning more about our history and the Civil Rights Movement that helped shape the country we live in today," said Johnson prior to the three-day trip. Â
Throughout the trip, student-athletes participated in museum tours, visited historical landmarks, and spoke with individuals who played roles in the Civil Rights Movement. These experiences exemplify the Illini values of education, civic engagement, leadership, and unity.Â
The Big Ten is committed to honoring the history of Selma, along with investing in the future of the city and its occupants.
Day 1 began in Tuskegee, where the group explored the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and the University. The day concluded with discussions of the impact this event has had on Tuskegee University, the city of Selma, and the lasting impression on the lives of the Tuskegee airmen and their loved ones.
"It's important to use my privilege to educate myself and advocate for a more just and inclusive world, as a white woman on this trip," Dorshorst said.
Day 2 started at Sharpe Park, next to First Baptist Church, where students unveiled a Big Ten basketball court and had a ribbon cutting ceremony. Attendees then participated in the inaugural walk, which helped deepen the understanding of Civil Rights history.
"Walking in the footsteps of history in Selma and Montgomery transformed my understanding of courage, unity, and justice," Coral said.Â
The afternoon featured visits to Civil Rights Memorial Park, the Alabama Archives Museum, and the Equal Justice Initiative Museum. After visiting each site, stories and truths were uncovered, and names remembered. Over lunch, thoughtful conversations help to reflect on the emotional weight of the group's experiences. Â
As attendees returned home and reflected on what they had learned, many student-athletes described the experience as deeply impactful.
"This trip opened my eyes in a way a textbook never could," Bryant said. "I left Selma inspired, empowered, and ready to be a voice for change."
Echoing that sentiment, Zafir added, "My experience is one I'll never forget. I feel as though I've become a more educated person because of this trip."
Staff were also deeply impacted by the Big Ten experience.
"The Big Life Series:Â Selma to Montgomery educational experience deepened my understanding of the real-life courage displayed by Lynda Blackmon and Sheyann Webb," Mungin said. "As ambassadors of the University of Illinois and elite athletes with influence, this kind of experience is especially critical in building leadership skills."
Unforgettable experiences like the Big Life Series: Selma to Montgomery not only deepen the student-athletes' understanding of history but also reinforce their roles as changemakers in their communities. Through these opportunities, Illinois continues to invest in the holistic development of its student-athletes, empowering them to lead with empathy, knowledge, and purpose both on and off the field.
