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217 Today: One man’s journey from living in poverty in Southern Illinois to prison to a PhD
In today's deep dive, one man is the first to make the leap from a University of Illinois college-in-prison program to a U of I degree.
The 217 Today Podcast
Keep up with news in Central Illinois every weekday with 217 Today. Hear the day's headlines, along with one deeper dive, in just ten minutes. Learn about the people and places that make Central Illinois unique with 217 Today.
217 Today: New exhibit showcases Illinois’ role in Underground Railroad
In today's deep dive, a new exhibit at the Urbana Free Library highlights Illinois' involvement in the Underground Railroad.
217 Today: Local film competition challenges participants to make a movie in 48 hours
In today's deep dive, Champaign Movie Makers is hosting their annual 48 Hour Film Competition this weekend, where participants have just two days to make a movie.
217 Today: Judge grants temporary restraining order to block the Trump Administration’s freeze on federal funding
In today’s deep dive, Illinois and four other Democratic-led states have filed a lawsuit against the Trump Administration to block a freeze on federal funding for childcare and family services. A judge has granted a temporary restraining order blocking immediate implementation of the freeze.
217 Today: A conversation with the president of the University of Illinois System about why he is stepping down next year
In today’s deep dive, the president of the University of Illinois System is stepping down once his contract expires next year. We'll bring you a conversation with Tim Killeen about why he's leaving and his plans for the future.
217 Today: What made 2025 a hard time to be a farmer and what’s ahead for some farmers in the central US
In today’s deep dive, some farmers ended 2025 unsure how they'll pay their bills. We'll hear from farmers around the central US about what made 2025 such a tough year and what's ahead.
217 Today: WILL Call: What’s Happening in Champaign – Urbana Jan. 8 – Jan. 11
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about what is coming to the Central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture and entertainment.
217 Today: Five candidates seeking to represent central Illinois in Congress, including incumbent Nikki Budzinski
In today’s deep dive, five candidates are seeking to represent central Illinois in Congress, including incumbent Nikki Budzinski.
217 Today: How a preservation project is saving wetlands in the Midwest
In today’s deep dive, a wetland preservation project continues, despite the shrinking number of wetlands in the Midwest.
217 Today: What’s Happening in Central Illinois Dec. 25 – Dec. 28
In today’s deep dive, we’ll learn about what is coming to the Central Illinois area in the world of arts, culture and entertainment.
