Illinois

Alex Palczewski played along the offensive line early in his career with former Illinois Chapter leader Nick Allegretti . He volunteered to step into a leadership role during his senior year. Alex attended the Leadership Development Conference in 2020 and 2021, and as the chapter President will play a key and instrumental role in helping the Illinois Chapter continue its mission to inspire the Rare Disease Community with hope.

The native of Illinois has started for the Fighting Illini since his true freshman year in 2017. Over the last four seasons, Alex had started 40 straight games including 29 in a row at right tackle before an injury ended his 2020 season. His 40 career starts is only eight shy of tying the school record. He was a third-team All Big Ten selection following the 2019 season and played in the first bowl game of his career.

Official Illinois Bio

Michael Marchese is the third member of his family to serve in a leadership role for an Uplifting Athletes chapter. His oldest brother Joe served as the Maryland Chapter President and older brother Jimmy served as an Illinois Chapter leader. Michael attended the Leadership Development Conference in 2020 and as a chapter leader will play a key and instrumental role in helping the Illinois Chapter continue its mission to inspire the Rare Disease Community with hope.

The native of Illinois started his career as a walk on for the Illini and has developed into a contributor on defense and special teams. He was awarded a scholarship during the offseason prior to the 2021 campaign. Over the last three seasons he has appeared in 27 games, making three starts at safety in 2018 and two starts as a linebacker in 2020. He’s registered nearly 50 tackles, a couple fumble recoveries and a pair of interceptions. Michael has a twin brother, Henry, who plays for the Iowa Hawkeyes.

Official Illinois Bio