The University of Illinois Chicago is preparing for its annual back-to-school music festival, SPARK, which will take place tomorrow night. The event is hosted by the Center for Student Involvement and aims to bring together members of the UIC community to celebrate the start of the semester.
Attendance at SPARK is free but requires an RSVP in advance. Entry will be granted upon scanning a valid UIC i-card at the entrance. Guests who attend with students must have purchased tickets and are expected to follow the same policies as outlined in the Student Disciplinary Policy. Any misrepresentation or policy violations may result in referral to the Office of the Dean of Students.
Students are reminded that they are responsible for their behavior and should review the university’s Standards of Conduct before attending. "As a member of the UIC Flames community, you are expected to behave in alignment with the UIC Standards of Conduct outlined in the Student Disciplinary Policy. Prior to this event, the Office of the Dean of Students recommends that you take a moment to review this policy. You should be aware that you are responsible not only for your behavior, but also for the impact of your actions," stated Michael Ginsburg, PhD, Special Advisor to the Chancellor.
SPARK enforces several campus rules: it is a smoke- and tobacco-free event; other substances are also prohibited; outside food and beverages—including alcohol—and water bottles or containers cannot be brought into the venue.
Security measures will be present during SPARK. The UIC Police Department and security teams will monitor entrances and patrol event grounds. Attendees who observe concerning or threatening behavior are encouraged to notify police or security immediately. "At the event, if you observe any concerning or threatening behavior, please notify the UIC Police Department or the security team on-site immediately," said Ginsburg.
There have been reports about increased law enforcement activity across Chicago this semester, including possible immigration enforcement and National Guard deployment. However, organizers do not expect federal law enforcement presence at SPARK. The university emphasizes its commitment to ensuring all attendees feel safe on campus: "Our priority is ensuring that every student, faculty, staff and visitor feels supported, respected and safe on campus."
Attendees seeking further information about services or disciplinary policies can contact either the Office of the Dean of Students or Center for Student Involvement via phone or email.
"Enjoy the event, and go Flames!" concluded Ginsburg.