On January 7, Lab seniors gathered for a panel with alumni who shared their college experiences and advice, helping the Class of 2025 prepare for their next chapter.
Explore a world of special events & opportunities for giving at Lab
Special Event Giving
Our institution is dedicated to fostering excellence in education and nurturing the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators. Throughout the year, we host a diverse array of special events, ranging from academic conferences and cultural celebrations to alumni reunions and fundraising galas.
Additionally, philanthropic support plays a vital role in advancing our mission and enriching the educational experiences of our students. Through giving, donors have the chance to make a lasting impact by supporting scholarships, research initiatives, campus improvements, and more. Join us in shaping the future of education and empowering generations to come through your participation in our special events and philanthropic efforts.
Dewey Dance
February 1, 2025 | 6–10 p.m.
Kovler Gymnasium | Event website
Dewey Dance, a beloved tradition inaugurated in 2017, was named in honor of Lab’s founder, John Dewey. A biennial event that alternates years with Lab's esteemed Connections gala, this spirited event brings together the Lab community in a joyous gathering, filling the air with laughter, music, and camaraderie. Serving as a vibrant counterpart to the formal elegance of Connections, Dewey Dance offers a lively platform for parents, faculty, and alumni to revel in the spirit of togetherness.
Dewey Dance 2017 Dewey Dance 2019 Dewey Dance 2023

Connections
Connections is Lab's biennial gala fundraiser to support need-based financial aid at the Laboratory Schools. This gala serves as an exciting opportunity for the Lab community to come together in support of ensuring access to a Lab education for all deserving students and other critical priorities.
Through generous contributions and spirited engagement, the funds raised from Connections not only enriches the lives of Lab students but also cultivates a culture of inclusivity and belonging throughout the school community. Join us at Connections, as we unite in our commitment to inspiring future generations through the transformative power of a Lab education.

Alumni Awards
Each year, during Alumni Weekend, the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools honors the contributions of alumni through the Lab Alumni Awards ceremony. This annual event recognizes and celebrates the outstanding accomplishments of Lab alumni across various domains and sectors, including academia, arts, science, technology, business, public service, and humanitarian efforts, among others.
These awards serve as a testament to the values instilled in Lab students and the exceptional caliber of individuals who have passed through the hallowed halls of the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.