Two ACES students join 2026 Homecoming Court
Two students from the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences were selected for the 2026 Homecoming Court at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.
The court is composed of 20 student leaders in senior standing who are selected based on their academic achievements, campus leadership, and community involvement. Those selected to serve on the court are viewed as role models for their peers and outstanding representatives of the University of Illinois student body.
The College of ACES students represented on the Homecoming Court include Natalie Beltran from the Department of Agricultural and Consumer Economics and Gabriel Lee from the Department of Agricultural and Biological Engineering.
Natalie Beltran, Elmhurst, IL, is majoring in agricultural and consumer economics. On campus, she has been involved in various organizations, including Kappa Alpha Pi pre-law and government fraternity and the Student Alumni Ambassadors. Beltran is hoping to pursue a career in law and policy. She believes the University of Illinois has shaped her into someone she could not have imagined becoming, offering opportunities for growth, both personally and academically, that have far exceeded her expectations. Being selected for Homecoming Court reflects that transformation and an honor she will carry with her always.
Gabriel Lee, Alton, IL, is studying engineering technology and management for agricultural systems, with a concentration in Energy & Environment & minor in Business. On campus, he serves as a Resident Advisor, President of the Central Black Student Union, a member of the National Residence Hall Honorary, and a member of the Central Residential Funding Board, and served as Supporting Chair of Men of Impact. As a first-generation college student, Lee believes his selection to Homecoming Court reflects the transformative power of the Illinois experience, and he hopes his journey encourages other first-generation students to pursue every opportunity Illinois offers.
Read about all member of the 2026 Homecoming Court from the Illinois News Bureau.