This year’s Dads Weekend marks the 100th Anniversary of the Dads Association, the oldest college parent organization in the United States. This weekend, we celebrate the Dads Association’s many contributions to the University, along with the University of Illinois tradition to honor a special father or father figure as KING DAD.

All university students were invited to nominate their father or father figure by submitting a King Dad essay that is reviewed by the Board of Directors for the Dads Association. As in past years, many students submitted excellent essays. Each student communicated why their Dad is special.

And now, it’s time to present King Dad 2022.

Let's all congratulate Ryan Jones, who was nominated by his daughter Estelle Jones, from Byron, Illinois. This special Illini Dad who will reign over this year's Dads Weekend festivities.

Ryan Jones will formally be crowned King Dad during a ceremony at halftime of the November 5th football game.

Congratulations, King Ryan Jones!