ICON Announces New Leadership and Renewed Focus on Community-Centered Mission

ICON is proud to announce the appointment of Liz Fuqua as its new Executive Director, ushering in a new chapter for the organization and its commitment to supporting Fighting Illini student-athletes.

In this new era, ICON’s mission will focus on further strengthening relationships between the University of Illinois, Fighting Illini Athletics, and the greater Champaign-Urbana community through meaningful engagement and outreach. Under Fuqua’s leadership, ICON will build upon its foundation to create impactful opportunities for student-athletes to connect, serve, and lead beyond the field of play.

“I am thrilled to rejoin Fighting Illini Athletics through ICON and collectively lift up our Champaign-Urbana community,” said Fuqua. “This is a special place with exceptional student-athletes, community, and business partners. Illinois is led by a strong administration that genuinely cares about and invests in the student-athlete experience. I am thankful to Illinois Director of Athletics Josh Whitman for his trust in me to lead this unique and meaningful evolution of ICON.”

With over 15 years of experience in student-athlete services and a deep understanding of the student-athlete experience, Fuqua brings a wealth of expertise to the new role. As the previous Associate Athletic Director for the Illini Way Student-Athlete Development, Fuqua built impactful student-athlete programs, fostering strong relationships with student-athletes and coaches while driving significant community engagement. Fuqua’s familiarity with the Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) and proven leadership within the department underscore a track record of trust, innovation, and results. Prior to her previous DIA stint, Fuqua spent time as the Community and Alumni Relations Manager for the Cleveland Browns, where she led their First & Ten initiative. While there she facilitated player, alumni, club and stadium-scale outreach programs, including NFL and Browns corporate sponsors, and delivering high-impact activations. Additionally, Fuqua serves on the National Association of Academic and Student-Athlete Development Professionals (N4A) Board of Directors, holding positions on the Executive Committee and is currently serving as President, further solidifying her reputation as a committed and respected leader in the industry.

ICON will continue the ICON for Illini Membership Program and ICON Business Coalition. These efforts not only help sustain ICON’s impact, but also provide members with exclusive experiences and benefits throughout the 2025–26 athletics season. Most importantly, continued support from members remains vital to the future of Illinois Athletics and the student-athletes who proudly represent the Illini.

About ICON

ICON is dedicated to supporting Fighting Illini student-athletes through community-focused initiatives and experiences that connect student-athletes to the community. By creating meaningful opportunities for engagement, ICON strengthens the bond between Fighting Illini Athletics and the Champaign-Urbana community. For more information and how you can get involved, visit iconforillini.com